Olomouc Attractions, Czech Republic

Horni namesti
One of Olomouc's two main squares is Horni namesti, also referred to as the upper square. This often busy square is home to some unique buildings and monuments. The baroque Holy Trinity Column, built in the mid 18th Century is the largest column in the Czech Republic, standing 35m / 115ft tall. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noted for its "baroque artistic expression". The Holy Trinity Column was designed by Ondrej Zahner from Moravia, and is adorned with religious carvings. It was built to commemorate victims of the plague.
Also on the Horni namesti square in Olomouc is the Renaissance town hall (Radnice). The town hall contains an astronomical clock, which was destroyed during World War II but rebuilt shortly after. Much like the Old Town Hall in Prague, the clock features a parade of figures that come out in procession at the top of the hour. Also of note on the square is the 19th Century theater in neo-classical style, designed by Josef Kornhausel.

Jeseniky Mountains
The Jeseniky Mountains (Hruby Jesenik) in the northwest of Northern Moravia are a rugged range containing the highest peak in Moravia, known as Praded. This area, near the border with Poland, is great for outdoor enthusiasts with walking and hiking trails to explore during the summer months and crossing country skiing in the winter. Some of the trails have huts along the routes making overnight treks an easy option. The Hruby Jesenik Protected Landscape Region (Chranena krajinna oblast Hruby Jesenik) is located in this area and protects the wildlife that inhabits this area, such as deer and boar. There are also some spa resorts located within the Jeseniky Mountains and the town of Hruby Jesenik.

Bouzov Castle
Do not let the town's Nazi past deter you from visiting the Bouzov Castle. Just 3.5km / 2mi from the small town that bears its name, this castle will impress even the most castle weary tourist. Before beginning your tour, be sure to climb the 61m / 200 ft tower to get a great overview of the layout of the castle.
Bouzov Castle was first begun in and around the 12th Century and completed approximately 17 years later. The castle fell into disrepair throughout the 17th and 18th Centuries until late in the 19th Century when Archduke Eugenius ordered its renovation. Over a five year span the castle was completely renovated into late German Gothic style. Well endowed with multiple towers, balconies, and even a drawbridge, the castle has a fairytale appearance. Inside, the castle is lavishly appointed with beautiful antique furniture, chandeliers, and interesting decorations on the walls. It was this high level of comfort which attracted the Nazis to Bouznov during World War Two. During the war, the occupiers took over the castle and lived in luxury while the people suffered.

Cathedral of St Wenceslas
The Cathedral of St Wenceslas in Olomouc was built in the 12th Century but retains little of that original Romanesque structure. Most of what is visible today dates from a reconstruction done in the late 19th Century, which saw the building transformed into a baroque style. The Cathedral of St Wenceslas, named for the patron saint of the Czech Republic, is also significant for a number of historical events that have taken place here over the centuries. The Hungarian King Matthias Korvinus was proclaimed the Czech King here in 1469.
Next to the Cathedral is the old Bishop's Palace, which is also open to the public for visits.

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