The Most Controversial Statues and Sculptures Brno Offers

Brno does not follow traditional rules for public art. The city often commissions pieces that surprise visitors. Some people find them confusing. Others think they are brilliant additions to the urban landscape. You should decide for yourself after seeing them in person.

Many of these works are located in the main squares. They have become iconic symbols of the city's identity. These must-see places in Brno offer a glimpse into local culture. Expect to see crowds taking photos at unusual angles.

• Best overall: Brno Astronomical Clock
• Best for photos: Courage (The Horse)
• Best hidden gem: The Shameless Man
• Best free activity: All outdoor sculptures

1. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Sculpture/Clock Why go: This black stone object is famous for its phallic shape. It releases a glass marble every day at 11:00 AM. Best for: Curious travelers and marble collectors. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take any tram to the Náměstí Svobody stop. Tip: Read how to read the Brno astronomical clock before you go.
2. Name: Courage (Jobst of Luxembourg) Type: Statue Why go: This statue features an 8-meter tall horse with incredibly long legs. If you stand between the front legs and look up, it looks quite different. Best for: Fans of surrealism and optical illusions. Where: Moravian Square (Moravské náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk five minutes north from Freedom Square. Tip: Visit the Jobst horse statue at sunset for great lighting.
3. Name: Justice (Spravedlnost) Type: Sculpture Why go: It depicts a man struggling to lift a heavy block. It stands in front of the Administrative Court. Best for: Photography and modern art lovers. Where: In front of the Supreme Administrative Court. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is located on Moravské náměstí near the church. Tip: Look at the water feature nearby during the summer months.
4. Name: Statue of W.A. Mozart Type: Statue Why go: This statue shows Mozart as a naked child with one wing. It commemorates his performance in Brno at age 11. Best for: Music history buffs. Where: In front of the Reduta Theatre. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Vegetable Market (Zelný trh). Tip: Visit the labyrinth under the vegetable market while you are there.

Historical Symbols and Political Art

Some art in Brno reminds us of the past. These pieces often face criticism due to changing political views. They serve as important markers of the city's long history. You can find these items in parks and near government buildings.

Historical statues often spark the most debate among locals. Some want to keep them for education. Others prefer to move them to museums. You can learn more about the city's past at Spilberk Castle.

1. Name: Red Army Soldier Type: Memorial Why go: This statue honors the liberation of Brno in 1945. It is a classic example of socialist realism. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Moravian Square (Moravské náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by most city tram lines. Tip: Check the Visit Czechia site for seasonal events nearby.
2. Name: The Obelisk Type: Monument Why go: This stone needle celebrates the end of the Napoleonic Wars. It offers a peaceful spot with great views. Best for: Viewpoint seekers and couples. Where: Denis Gardens (Denisovy sady). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the main train station. Tip: See the Denis Gardens viewpoints for the best city photos.
3. Name: Bench of Václav Havel Type: Memorial sculpture Why go: This is a simple wooden bench with a table and a heart. It invites people to sit and talk. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Near the Goose on a String Theatre. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Petrská terrace area. Tip: The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is right above this spot.

Hidden Quirks and Architectural Oddities

Brno hides many small sculptures on its buildings. You have to look up to find them. These pieces often have funny or rude backstories. They show the rebellious spirit of the city's builders.

Exploring these details is like a treasure hunt. You will see things most tourists miss. Many are located near the Old Town Hall. Keep your eyes open as you walk through the narrow streets.

1. Name: The Nehanbic (Shameless Man) Type: Architectural sculpture Why go: This tiny figure on St. James Church is showing his bare bottom. It was a prank by the builders. Best for: Travelers who like local legends. Where: St. James Church (Jakubské náměstí). Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk two minutes from the main square. Tip: Visit the Brno Ossuary located right under the church.
2. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: Curio/Legend Why go: It is actually a stuffed crocodile hanging from the ceiling. It is the most famous legend in Brno. Best for: Families and children. Where: Entrance of the Old Town Hall. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the heart of the historic center. Tip: Climb the tower for a bird's-eye view of the city.
3. Name: Edison's Light Bulbs Type: Modern sculpture Why go: Four giant, tangled light bulbs honor Thomas Edison. He designed the lighting for the nearby Mahen Theatre. Best for: Science and art fans. Where: Malinovského náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a tram to the Malinovského náměstí stop. Tip: Check the DPMB public transport site for the best routes.