Olomouc The former capital city of Moravia, the Bishop’s and Archbishop’s seat and also the largest fortress in the Austrian monarchy is the second largest conservation area in the Czech Republic. Its historic centre, which includes a town hall and an astronomical clock, the Holy Trinity Column and remarkable set of Baroque fountains and palaces fascinate all. The Church of Saint Maurice prides itself for having the largest organ in Central Europe. Other artistic treasures are concentrated around three hillocks. Michalské návrší with the Baroque Church of St Michael, the Chapel of St John Sarkander and the Jesuit monastery, and Petrské návrší with the Archbishop’s Palace where Franz Joseph I ascended the throne are closely connected with the spiritual and university life of the town. Saint Wenceslas Cathedral on Václavské návrší was built on the site of the original castle from the Přemyslides’ dynasty. One cannot also miss the vast Baroque Hradisko complex, called the Moravian Escorial. For its unrepeatable atmosphere, Lonely Planet declared Olomouc to be the most beautiful town in the Czech Republic, and it also placed first in the list of the fifty hidden treasures of Europe. The monumental Holy Trinity Column Triton Fountain Fort XVII Křelov OLOMOUC Arion Fountain Caesar Fountain One of the Hidden Gems of Europe Town Hall Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Baroque Church of St Michael Baroque Hradisko complex Orloj Saint Wenceslas Cathedral The Church of Saint Maurice the Chapel of St John Sarkander