History of the Burial Place of King Wenceslas III in Olomouc

King Wenceslas III was murdered in Olomouc in 1306. This event changed Czech history forever. He was just a teenager at the time of his death. His body was laid to rest in the local cathedral. This made the burial place of king wenceslas iii in olomouc a site of great importance. His remains stayed here for twenty years. Later, they were moved to a monastery near Prague. However, the cathedral in Olomouc remains his most famous resting spot. You can still feel the medieval atmosphere in the cathedral today. It is a place of quiet reflection and deep history. You can learn more about the country on the Czech Republic Wikipedia page.

10 Must-See Sites at the Burial Place of King Wenceslas III

The cathedral district is the heart of historic Olomouc. Here are the top ten sites to visit near the royal burial grounds. These locations offer a mix of history, art, and great views.

• Best overall: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral
• Best for families: Olomouc Astronomical Clock
• Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum
• Best free: Upper Square

1. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc Type: sight Why go: This is the primary burial place of King Wenceslas III in Olomouc. The Gothic spires dominate the city skyline. Inside, you can see the royal chapel and beautiful altars. Best for: History buffs. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Take tram 2, 3, 4, or 6 to the 'U Dómu' stop. Tip: Visit during a morning service to hear the organ.
2. Name: The Cathedral Crypt Type: experience Why go: This underground space holds the tombs of bishops and royal history. It is a quiet, atmospheric part of the cathedral complex. Best for: People seeking a spooky but holy atmosphere. Where: Beneath the main altar. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Small fee for entry. Getting there: Entrance is inside the main cathedral. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold downstairs.
3. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: museum Why go: It is located in the former Deanery where the king was actually murdered. The museum displays world-class religious art and a golden coach. Check the Olomouc Museum of Art site for details. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Right next to the cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Walking distance from the cathedral. Tip: Do not miss the Romanesque windows in the palace section.
4. Name: The Southern Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the tallest church tower in Moravia. It offers a 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Best for: Photographers. Where: South side of the cathedral. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Entrance is through the cathedral shop. Tip: The climb is steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
5. Name: Zdík's Palace Type: sight Why go: This is one of the best-preserved Romanesque palaces in Europe. It shows how the elite lived in the 12th century. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Connected to the cathedral cloisters. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Access via the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: Look for the ancient graffiti on the walls.
6. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Baroque sculpture in Central Europe. It is a symbol of the city's resilience. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully lit.
7. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: Unlike the one in Prague, this clock features socialist-realist art. It shows workers and scientists instead of saints. Best for: Fans of unique history. Where: The Town Hall wall in Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: The clock performs its show every day at noon.
8. Name: Bezruč Gardens Type: nature Why go: These gardens run along the old city walls. They offer a peaceful escape with views of the cathedral from below. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the cathedral toward the river. Tip: Find the entrance to the botanical gardens nearby.
9. Name: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the social heart of the city. It is surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and fountains. Best for: People watching. Where: City center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Trams 1, 2, and 7 stop nearby. Tip: Try the local "tvarůžky" cheese in a nearby shop.
10. Name: Chapel of Saint Sarkander Type: unique local experience Why go: This chapel is built over an old dungeon. It has a very unique circular design and a moving history. Best for: Spiritual travelers. Where: On a hill between the cathedral and the square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the Lower Square. Tip: Look through the glass floor to see the old torture wheel.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Cathedral District

Visiting the burial place of king wenceslas iii in olomouc is easy with a little planning. The cathedral is active, so check for mass times before you go. Mornings are usually quiet and perfect for photos. Most sites in the district are within walking distance of each other. You can find more travel info on the Olomouc Tourism Portal. Wear sturdy shoes because the streets are mostly cobblestone. Many museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your trip for Tuesday through Sunday. Always carry a little cash for small entry fees or snacks.