Understanding the Olomouc Fortress Ring

The city of Olomouc was once one of the strongest fortresses in Europe. In the mid-1800s, military technology changed rapidly. The old city walls were no longer enough to stop modern cannons. Engineers built a ring of detached forts several kilometers from the city center. This created a defensive perimeter that kept attackers at a distance.

You can still see the history of the Olomouc bastion fortifications in the city park. However, the outer ring is where the real adventure lies. Many of these forts were abandoned after the fortress status was abolished in 1886. Some were used as warehouses or barracks during the World Wars. Others were left to the mercy of nature.

Today, the Olomouc Tourism Portal highlights several of these sites for visitors. Some forts are now private property or museum spaces. Others remain as quiet ruins in the woods. Using a map of abandoned fortresses around Olomouc city is the best way to plan a bike or hiking trip. It allows you to see how the city was protected from all sides.

10 Must-See Spots on the Map of Abandoned Fortresses Around Olomouc City

This list features the most interesting sites within the fortress ring. We have included a mix of restored museums and atmospheric ruins. Always respect local signage and stay safe when entering older structures.

• Best overall: Fort XVII Křelov
• Best for families: Crown Fortress
• Best for nature: Fort XI Radíkov
• Best free site: Fort XXII Černovír

1. Name: Fort XVII Křelov Type: Sight/Museum Why go: It is the most beautifully restored fort in the ring. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Křelov village, west of Olomouc. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for tours. Getting there: Bus from the city center or a 15-minute drive. Tip: Check the visiting Fort XVII Křelov opening hours before you go.
2. Name: Crown Fortress (Korunní pevnůstka) Type: Experience Why go: This is an urban fortress park with a science museum. Best for: A quick walk near the city center. Where: Near the Botanical Garden. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Free to enter the grounds. Getting there: Easy walk from the main square. Tip: Visit the "Fortress of Knowledge" located inside one of the old powder magazines.
3. Name: Fort XI Radíkov Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It is a massive artillery fort with impressive stone arches. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Radíkov, on a hill overlooking the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Usually free to view from outside; tours available in summer. Getting there: Take a bus to Radíkov and walk 10 minutes. Tip: The views of the Svatý Kopeček basilica from here are stunning.
4. Name: Fort II Chválkovice Type: Abandoned Sight Why go: It showcases the classic pentagonal shape of the forts. Best for: Seeing the scale of the earthworks. Where: Chválkovice district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Local tram or bus to Chválkovice. Tip: The interior is often closed, but you can walk the outer perimeter.
5. Name: Fort XIII Nová Ulice Type: Neighborhood Sight Why go: This fort is tucked away in a residential area. Best for: A quiet walk away from tourists. Where: Nová Ulice district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram lines 1, 4, or 6. Tip: Look for the massive brick entrance gate hidden behind the trees.
6. Name: Fort XV Neředín Type: Unique Experience Why go: Parts of this fort are used as a community garden and art space. Best for: Seeing how old military sites are reused. Where: Near the Neředín cemetery. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to the Neředín terminus. Tip: It is very close to the local airport, making it a great spot for plane spotting too.
7. Name: Fort XX Křelov Type: Raw Ruin Why go: It feels much more abandoned and wild than Fort XVII. Best for: Urban explorers. Where: North of Křelov village. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bike or car is best. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven and overgrown.
8. Name: Fort XXII Černovír Type: Nature/Sight Why go: It sits near the Morava river and has a haunting atmosphere. Best for: A scenic bike ride along the river. Where: Černovír district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the bike path north from the city. Tip: Visit the nearby military cemetery for a somber look at local history.
9. Name: Fort XXIV Holice Type: Abandoned Sight Why go: It is one of the southern anchors of the defense system. Best for: Completing the full ring tour. Where: Holice district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus to the industrial zone of Holice. Tip: This area is less green, so visit on a cloudy day for better photos.
10. Name: Fort IV Bystročice Type: Day Trip Why go: It is located further out and offers a sense of isolation. Best for: Experienced cyclists. Where: Bystročice village. Time: 3 hours (including travel). Cost: Free. Getting there: A 30-minute bike ride from the city. Tip: Bring water and snacks, as there are few shops near this specific fort.

Planning Your Olomouc Fortress System Exploration

Exploring these sites requires a bit of planning. The best way to see several forts in one day is by bicycle. Olomouc is flat, and many bike paths connect the outer districts. You can rent a bike in the city center to start your journey. Most forts are within a 5 to 10-kilometer radius of the Holy Trinity Column.

Safety is important when visiting abandoned sites. Some structures have loose bricks or hidden holes. Never enter underground tunnels without a powerful flashlight and a partner. It is also wise to check the weather. Mud can make the earthworks slippery after rain. For more ideas on hidden gems, check out local secrets in Olomouc.

If you visit in 2026, look for special events. Many forts host historical reenactments during the summer months. These events bring the cold stone walls to life with costumes and cannons. You can find more information on the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page. Always carry a digital map of abandoned fortresses around Olomouc city on your phone.