The Best Quirky Statues and Sculptures in Brno

The city center is a playground for modern art. Most of these pieces are within walking distance of each other. You can see them all in a single afternoon. Each piece tells a story about Brno's history or humor. Here are the top picks for your self-guided tour.

• Name: Brno Astronomical Clock (Brněnský orloj) Type: Sight/Activity Why go: It is famous for its phallic shape and unique time-telling. Every day at 11:00 AM, it releases a glass marble. Best for: Curious travelers and marble collectors. Where: Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main train station. Tip: Read about the meaning of the Brno Astronomical Clock before you visit.
• Name: Courage (Jobst of Luxembourg) Type: Sight Why go: This giant horse statue has an accidental optical illusion. If you stand between the horse's front legs and look up, it looks very different. Best for: Fans of funny photography. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk north from Freedom Square. Tip: Check out the Jobst of Luxembourg horse statue illusion for the best photo angle.
• Name: The Indecent Little Man (Nehanba) Type: Sight Why go: This tiny statue is hidden on the arches of St. James Church. He is showing his bare bottom to the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Best for: People who love cheeky local legends. Where: St. James Church (Kostel sv. Jakuba). Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the St. James Ossuary. Tip: Look high up on the window pillars to find the Indecent Little Man.
• Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Legend says it was a dragon that terrorized the city. Best for: Families and kids. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view the passage. Getting there: Walk from Zelný trh (Cabbage Market). Tip: The Old Town Hall also houses a tourist information center.
• Name: The Brno Wheel Type: Sight Why go: A local carpenter supposedly made this wheel and rolled it from Lednice to Brno in one day. It represents the skill of local craftsmen. Best for: History buffs. Where: Old Town Hall passage, next to the Dragon. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Same location as the Brno Dragon. Tip: Look for the bent tower pinnacle on the outside of the building too.
• Name: Justice (Spravedlnost) Type: Sight Why go: This statue shows a man lifting a heavy block. Locals joke that he looks like he is moving a washing machine. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court on Moravské náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Courage horse statue. Tip: It is a popular spot for local students to meet.
• Name: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Statue Type: Sight Why go: It depicts Mozart as a naked child with one wing. It commemorates his performance in Brno at age eleven. Best for: Music lovers. Where: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market), in front of Reduta Theatre. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from Freedom Square. Tip: Visit the market stalls nearby for fresh local fruit.
• Name: Pocta T.A. Edisonovi (Edison Bulbs) Type: Sight Why go: This sculpture of four giant intertwined light bulbs honors Thomas Edison. He designed the electrical wiring for the nearby Mahen Theatre. Best for: Science and history enthusiasts. Where: Malinovského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Mahen Theatre. Tip: It looks best when illuminated at night.
• Name: Statue of Gregor Mendel Type: Sight Why go: Mendel is the father of genetics. This modern statue shows him emerging from a sea of peas. Best for: Science fans. Where: Mendlovo náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a tram to Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Visit the nearby Mendel Museum for more context.
• Name: Bench of Václav Havel Type: Experience Why go: It is a memorial consisting of two garden chairs and a table around a tree. It invites people to sit and talk. Best for: A quiet moment of reflection. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Capuchin Crypt. Tip: It is a great place to rest after climbing the Cathedral hill.
• Name: Statue of Moderation Type: Sight Why go: This tall, thin statue is part of a series of four virtues. It represents the ability to stay balanced. Best for: Art collectors. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Part of the square ensemble near the Court. Tip: Try to find all four virtues around the square.
• Name: Sculptures at Brno Central Cemetery Type: Day trip Why go: This is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Central Europe. It features stunning 19th and 20th-century funerary art. Best for: Peaceful walks and art history. Where: Vídeňská street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 2 or 5 from the center. Tip: Check the Brno Central Cemetery official site for opening hours.

Why Brno Loves Unusual Public Art

Brno has a long history of being a bit different. It often feels like the underdog compared to Prague. This has created a unique local pride. The city uses public art to express its character. Many of these quirky statues and sculptures in Brno were commissioned recently. They aim to make the city more interactive and fun.

Local legends also play a massive role. The stories of the dragon and the wheel are centuries old. By turning these myths into physical art, the city keeps its history alive. You can find more secret places in Brno that share this vibe. Even the modern pieces often reference local events or famous residents.

The city's sense of humor is quite dry. They know the astronomical clock looks strange. Instead of hiding it, they embrace the jokes. This openness makes Brno a very welcoming place for travelers. You are encouraged to touch the art and take photos. It is a very different experience than a traditional museum.

Practical Tips for Your Brno Sculpture Tour

Most statues are located in the pedestrian zone. You should wear comfortable walking shoes. The city center is compact and easy to navigate. You can see most items on this list in about three hours. If you get tired, there are many hidden cozy cafes in Brno to visit. They offer great coffee and a place to rest.

Public transport in Brno is excellent and reliable. For the Mendel statue or the cemetery, use the tram system. You can buy tickets with a contactless card on the vehicle. Visit the DPMB website for maps and schedules. Most trams run every 5 to 10 minutes during the day.

Photography is best in the early morning or late afternoon. The light on the horse statue is particularly nice at sunset. During the day, Freedom Square can get quite crowded. If you want a photo without people, go before 9:00 AM. Always be respectful of the religious sites near the statues. Brno is a safe city, but keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.

More Unique Artistic Experiences in Brno

If you enjoy quirky art, look below the surface. Brno has a fascinating underground labyrinth with historic displays. The tunnels under the Cabbage Market are full of strange objects. You can see old wine cellars and medieval pillories. It is a great way to escape the heat or rain.

Architecture fans should not miss the city's modernist gems. While not statues, these buildings are works of art. The Villa Tugendhat is a world-famous UNESCO site. It shows how Brno was at the forefront of modern design. You can also find interesting sculptures in the gardens of other villas. The city's creative spirit is visible in every corner.

Don't forget to look for smaller details on buildings. Many houses have unique gargoyles or decorative reliefs. The "Indecent Little Man" is just one example of many. Exploring Brno is like a treasure hunt for art lovers. Keep your eyes open and you will find something new. For more inspiration, visit the Go To Brno portal.