Brno, Czech Republic

Travelling more than 1,000 km south of Lithuania will get you to Brno in the Czech Republic.

Brno, the former capital of Moravia., has hundreds of historical sights. Castles, palaces, churches and monasteries, ossuaries and crypts. Brno certainly has a lot to offer.

The Spilberk castle and fortress has a very intriguing past - from being the seat of the Moravian margraves, to a prison, then a barracks and currently the Brno City Museum.

Villa Tugendhat is hailed as a prime example of modern architecture and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. This was the principal location for the film Hannibal Rising so it is a must on my places to visit.

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is a national cultural monument. The bells of the cathedral are rung at 11 o'clock. Legend says that during the Swedish invasion, the Swedes promised to stop attacking the city if they have not taken it by midday. Some citizens then decided to ring the bell an hour early.


Moravian kroje
(Photo by Petr Kalivoda)

As someone interested in traditional culture, I'd definitely see one of the Moravian traditional folk festivals held locally in the cities of Zidenice, Lisen or Ivanovice. 
It would also be great to see the fireworks festival Ignis Brunensis. Said to be the biggest festival in central Europe, it is held annually in May or June for two weeks. An international fireworks competition that is sure to be very entertaining.


Ignes Brunensis
(Photo by Vojta Jahoda)

And for something a little bit spooky, the Brno Ossuary and the Capuchin Crypt would be well worth the visit if you are not afraid of skeletons.

But if you prefer something closer to nature, then the Moravian Krast is the best place to see caves and gorges including the Macocha Abyss.