Olomouc “ – the most beautiful Czech city”

Praha

Ostrava Tourist Olomouc News Special edition | 2015 season | Free | tourism.olomouc.eu

Tourist season news Invitation to interesting events Leisure time tips Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 2

Olomouc churches Access to Olomouc churches in 2015 open their doors CHURCHES OPENING HOURS GUIDE SERVICE Tue – Thu, Sat 10:00; 11:00; 13:00; St Maurice’s Church Mon – Sun 7:00–18:00 23. 4. – 30. 9. to the public 14:00; 15:00 Mon – Sun 10:00; 11:00; 13:00; 14:00; For a thousand years, Olomouc has Holy Trinity Column Mon – Sun 10:00–16:00 23. 4. – 30. 9. been the spiritual capital of . Throu- 15:00 ghout the summer season, you can once Tue – Sat 10:00; 11:00; 12:00; 14:00; again visit the most beautiful Olomouc 15:00; 16:00 St Wenceslas churches, cathedrals and chapels and Mon – Sun 7:00–18:00 23. 4. – 30. 9. Tue – Sat 10:00 – 13:00; Cathedral + crypt thanks to knowledgeable guides you will 14:00 – 17:00 only crypt learn a lot of interesting about them. “The operation of guide service and access to Sun 11:00 – 17:00 only crypt churches has been on for several seasons. 10:00–12:00 Tue – Sat Tue – Sat 10:00; 11:00; 15:00; 16:00; We are getting very positive feedback from 14:30-17:30 Church of the Virgin 17:00 visitors and therefore we offer our support 23. 4. – 30. 9. Mary of the Snow 11:00-12:30 to churches this year again,” says Deputy Sun Sun 11:00; 11:30; 12:00; 15:00; 16:00 15:00-16:30 Mayor Pavel Urbášek. Daily from April 23 to september 30 you can inspect Tue – Sat 9:00; 10:00; 11:30; 13:30; St Michael’s Church Mon – Sun 7:00–18:00 23. 4. – 30. 9. churches of st. Maurice, st. Michael, 14:30 our Lady of the snows, st. wenceslas Chapel of St John Tue – Sat 10:00; 11:00; 12:30; 13:30; Cathedral incl. the crypt, st. John sar- Mon – Sun 9:00–17:00 19. 6. – 31. 8. Sarkander 14:30 kander Chapel, Dominican Church, Basilica of the visitation at Holy Hill Tue – Sat 11:00; 12:00; 13:00; 14:00; Dominican Church Mon – Sun 7:00–18:00 23. 4. – 30. 9. (svatý Kopeček) and the chapel in- 15:00; 16:00 side the Holy Trinity Column on Horní Basilica of the 8:30–17:00 square. The service is free, no reservation Tue – Sat 10:00; 11:00; 12:00; 13:00; Visitation of the Mon – Sun except Mon 23. 4. – 30. 9. is needed. tourism.olomouc.eu 14:00; 15:00; 16:00 Blessed Virgin Mary afternnon

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Page 4 Festivities for Olomouc citizens and guests How does Olomouc celebrate

Page 7 Olomouc forts We are opening the fascinating Fortress of Knowledge Welcome to Olomouc, dear guests. It is said that we can learn the level of Page 8 cultural character of a particular commu- Olomouc Baroque Festival nity by the degree of its hospitality. I there- fore hope that you will find our city and its Colorful costumes, Baroque citizens really hospitable and welcoming. melodies, tip for cultural experience I believe that your experience of Olomouc and its hospitality will not only make you to come back but also to bring your friends Page 11 with you next time or to recommend them visiting Olomouc. Olomouc deserves it Sluňákov and it will certainly reward you with frien- Seven Gates to Nature, sustainable dliness. building of the year The ancient Olomouc has its charm. You can feel it when you enter the maze of old streets at the Castle, when the slim Page 13 silhouette of the Renaissance Town Hall tower suddenly emerges in front of you, News for the summer season when you visit magnificent churches, sit on What can visitors look forward a bench next to one of the Baroque foun- tains or walk along the city walls through to in the summer parks and then enter through a medieval gate back to the historic centre. Just let the city work its magic and let your imagi- Page 15 nation drift for a while ... Then you will feel that the city has won your heart and you A window to Olomouc region spas will understand why the Czechs refer to Therme Losiny, , Teplice Olomouc as “she“. – an experience for everyone Olomouc is a beautiful, colorful, fragrant and friendly. It can not only please the visual senses, but also treats the tas- te buds and provides nourishment for the artistic soul. Multimedia guide Come and see for yourself. I‘m sure you “OLINA“ will fall in love with Olomouc.

 free apps to your phone via wifi  9 language mutations  12 tourist routes around the most beautiful city sites Doc. Mgr. Antonín Staněk, Ph.D. Mayor of the City of Olomouc

Published by the City of Olomouc, 2015 tourism.olomouc.eu Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 4 Festivities for Olomouc citizens and guests Theater performances, concert, fair, evening procession of fencers and historic aldermen, fes- tival of microbreweries and big battle of Swedes against Habsburg Imperial army. Olomouc is go- ing to celebrate for two days, the 5th and 6th of June. And although our city is beautiful every day in every season, these are probably the two best days to become familiar with Olomouc. The City Fest is connected with reverence to Saint Paula, the patron Saint of the city, to whom the citizens of Olomouc successfully pledged to avert the plague in the 17th century. This year too, Saint Paula will play an important part in the fes- tivities. For the first time however, the procession with the relics of the patron saint will set out in the evening, after the main concert. The procession of city officials and some 150 fencers, all in historical costumes and with bur- ning torches, promises a great visual experience. Yet the City Fest offers much more than that. Since Friday morning on the Dolní Squa- re, there will be plenty of opportunities for sho- pping at the Hanakian regional farmer‘s market, The reliquary of St Paula is the central motif of the procession. The photo shows it in the hands of Jan Graubner, Archbishop of Olomouc. Photo MMOl handmade market, book and antiquarian mar- ket, later joined by historical and craft fair with the Olomouc Music Institute Band will gather for medieval walls, a military camp from the Thirty workshops and attractive presentation of Olo- a large open-air concert. Saturday‘s program Years War will be established. At 4 pm, a big ba- mouc microbreweries. Choirs participating in the has a similar content – fairs and microbreweries ttle between the Swedish and the Habsburg Im- Feast of Songs will introduce themselves during joined by fencers, historical music bands and perial Army over control of the city will break out. the day and at 7 pm, three hundred singers and theater groups. In Bezruč Park below massive svatkymesta.olomouc.eu

 18.–27.6. European Football September Events Calendar – Championship U21  7.–21. 9. International Olomouc 2015 a match of one of the groups as part Organ Festival of the final football tournament ME U21 47th year of a festival of organ music May www.fotbal.cz www.mfo.cz       20. 6. Olomouc Half Marathon 10.–13. 9. European Heritage Days 1. 5. Ecology Days th eco-fair, cultural program, exhibitions, 6 year of the biggest sports event in open doors days, guided tours, www.runczech.com ded.olomouc.eu discussions and lectures | www.slunakov.cz Olomouc, a sports fair | open air performances |  22. 6. Concert of the opera singer  20. 9.–11. 10. Autumn Festival  1.–23. 5. Dvořák‘s Olomouc Ildebrando D‘Arcangelo of Sacred Music international music festival | www.mfo.cz open air concert, fireworks | www.olomouc.eu 22nd year of a festival of sacred music  2.–9. 5. Celebrating the 70th www.podzimni-festival.cz anniversary of the end of WWII July events and exhibitions | www.olomouc.eu  Olomouc culture holidays October  16.–17. 5. Garden Food Festival multi-genre holiday festival  1.–4. 10. Flora Olomouc 1st year of a gastronomy festival www.olomouckekulturniprazdniny.cz autumn stage of international horticultural www.gardenfooodfestival.cz  1.–24. 7. Olomouc Baroque Festival and floral exhibition and fair | www.flora-ol.cz   rd 23. 5. Olomouc Wine Festival 3 year of a summer festival of Baroque November nd 2 year of a wine festival with cultural opera | baroko.olomouc.eu  St Martin‘s Day in Olomouc program | www.olomoucka-vinna.cz  23.–26. 7. Colores Flamencos celebration of St Martin‘s Day, tasting   th 28.–30. 5. Beerfest 7 year of an international festival of flamenco and sale of young wines th 14 year of a beer festival with cultural and Spanish culture | www.flamencool.cz  Baroque & Opera Schrattenbach program | www.pivnifestival.cz 18th year of a festival of old Baroque music August and contemporary music June  20.–23. 8. Flora Olomouc www.ensembledamian.com  5.–6. 6. Olomouc City Fest summer stage of international horticultural traditional historical city festival and floral exhibition and fair | www.flora-ol.cz November –December svatkymesta.olomouc.eu  28.–29. 8. Commemoration of Field  Olomouc Christmas  13. 6. Bounty Rock Cafe Open Air 2015 Marshal Radetzky traditional Christmas markets, 5th year of a rock festival festivities associated with a parade of military St. Nicholas‘ Eve, culture www.brcopenair.cz brass bands | www.radecky.eu and entertainment | www.olomouc.eu Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 5 Olomouc Zoo – connecting Parents can relax the world of animals and humans while kids have fun in the waterpark Olomouc Zoo on the Holy Hill, and resemble a rock with caves through which visitors can venture in the territory of these wild one of the largest Czech beasts. “The new pavilion provides habitat app- zoos, is getting on with roaching natural conditions and we now have the chance to see what kind of role it plays in rearing construction of Safari, the next generation of this predator,” says Rado- this year its African part. mír Habáň. Cheetah twins, born on Christmas Day last The zoo–train will now pass right among year, are another attractive novelty. In nice wea- South African Oryxes and just past the extended ther Dayo and Dinari will be seen with their enclosure of popular Rothschild giraffes. The first mother Bint in cheetahs‘ enclosure engaged in of the five planned parts, the Eurasian one, has wild games and teasing. However, this breeding been enticing visitors for two years. Out of the success is not the last one in Olomouc Zoo. Ri- train they can watch bisons that inhabited our ght in the entrance hall the incoming visitors are forests centuries ago, as well as elks, chamois, welcomed by ring-tailed lemurs with offspring, among which there are to be seen playful twins To combine parents‘ relaxation with fun ibex, sika deer and other animals. “In June, we of these Malagasy prosimians. The nearby mon- for their children? Possible! Come and en- would like to launch the main tourist season with key pavilion offers another lemur species, gi- joy the summer in Olomouc Aquapark in any the opening ceremony of the African safari,” says bbons and small marmosets with proud parents weather! There is a novelty for young visitors Radomír Habáň, director of Olomouc Zoo. and playful kids. – an indoor play park with a climbing The 29.3 meters high observation tower is The Zoo is attractive not only due to a large wall, fun nooks and crannies and inter- going to get a new anticorrosive coating. From amount of species (more than 370), the number active play panels. Their parents can in the its peak visitors can overlook animal enclosures, of animals (over 1,700 pieces), regular breeding meantime relax with a massage, in sauna or Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, the of pups (almost 300 per year) but also thanks to by the pool. And that‘s not all! city of Olomouc and Hanakia lowlands bordered the beautiful, rolling, almost mountainous terrain, Summer at the Aquapark guarante- by Drahanská Highlands, Hostýnské Hills, Jese- so unusual for the local region. Visitors often ad- es a lot of fun and adventure. Entertainers níky Mountains and in fine weather even Praděd, mire the pavilion with beautiful marine aquariums, will engage both big and small adventurers its highest mountain. feline enclosures, they enjoy sometimes a rather into interesting competitions. You can take Lovers of exotic animals will certainly be adventurous stroll among macaques monkeys part in Aquafitness and Aquazumba exerci- pleased by the opportunity to observe the Amur and admire one of the largest domestic herds se as well as in a summer octathlon with leopard mother and cub, beautiful large cats, un- of majestic Rothschild‘s giraffes. An enhanced events such as tube slide racing, AquaZor- fortunately on the verge of extinction in the wild. connection between the world of animals and bing, smart diver, 25 meters Hippo Run and In Olomouc however, they thrive and bree- humans is the journey that the Zoo has been fo- more. Children aged 4–15 years have a bo- ders again rejoice at their new baby. Their pavili- llowing for the last three years and its vision is nus! A Health Card, where they will collect on and enclosure are partly sunk into the ground being gradually realized. stamps for accomplished events and possi- bly win an attractive prize at the end of the holidays. For 3–7 year old handy kids there will be Creative Workshop open in the outdoor area in fine weather. Summer holidays will also launch popular summer camps for children who will return home either as expe- rienced travellers or rescuers. The Little Ex- plorer Camp is for 3–7 year old children and will take place from 29. 6. to 28. 8. 2015. Young Rescuer is ready for swimmers from 8 to 14 years from 6. 7. to 28. 8. 2015. Every camp lasts from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 am to 4 pm, drinks and meals included. In addition to water fun, people of all ge- nerations can enjoy moments of relaxation with a massage, sauna ceremonies or nude sunbathing on a separate terrace. Learn more at www.aqua-olomouc.cz. Do not hesitate and come enjoy the summer with the whole family. There is something for Olomouc Zoo, open daily: X.–II.: 9:00–16:00; III., IX. 9:00–17:00; IV.–VIII. 9:00–18:00, entrance free CZK 110, tel.: 585 151 601, [email protected], www.zoo-olomouc.cz Photo ZOO Olomouc everyone at the Aquapark. Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 6 Ildebrando D‘Arcangelo: from This June is all about sports La Scala of Milano to Olomouc There will have never been so many athletes and sports fans in Olomouc. In mid-June, the Year after year, the Horní Square opens for Olomouc will host the Mattoni ½ Marathon which lovers of good music as the most beautiful con- has long been among the most popular running cert hall. This place has already seen stars such races in our country and was certified the Road as José Cura, Paco de Lucia and Elina Garanča, Race Gold Label by International Association of repeatedly the Moravian Philharmonic as well as Athletics Federations (IAAF) last year. From June opera performed by the Moravian Theatre. 18 to 27, Olomouc will host one of two groups This year in June, the warmed up square will of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. host a star of several European opera houses, English and Italian representatives, the UEFA the Italian bass-baritone Ildebrando D‘Arcangelo. delegation and of course thousands of Italian An outdoor temporary stage in the historic and English fans will stay in Olomouc and vicini- centre of Olomouc will offer place for almost ty. At the end, one of the two semi-final matches three thousand spectators. Ildebrando D‘Ar- will take place in which the Czech team Lvíčata cangelo is praised by critics and audiences for might take part, according to the results of the his majestic stage presence and unmistakable group. Near the stadium, there will be voice color. Fans know him as several Mozart‘s a big fanzone, busy with many activities not only characters (Figaro, Don Giovanni and Lepo- on days of matches. Olomouc ½ Marathon is al- rello); in his repertoire one will find many bel ready an established concept. Last year, nearly canto roles from operas by Bellini, Donizetti and 25,000 runners and their fans arrived to Olo- Rossini. The Italian star will be assisted by Si- mouc. 5500 runners, including elite athletes from mona Houda Šaturová. Both protagonists will Ildebrando D‘Arcangelo is a charismatic singer Kenya, Ethiopia and Japan, will run through the be accompanied by the Moravian Philharmonic who will certainly enchant the audience with his streets and parks of Olomouc on Saturday, June Orchestra. voice and presence. Photo www.obrazky.cz Radetzky is returning to his Olomouc For at least one day of the year, our best They commemorate him every year by hol- military strategist of the 19th century, Field ding festivities which evoke the best of 19th Marshal Johann Joseph Wenzel Anton Franz century traditions. Marshal Radetzky stayed Karl Graf Radetzky von Radetz, takes over co- in Edelmann Palace on Horní Square and it mmand of the city again. One of the most fa- is this square where celebrations of August mous Czech military commanders, who never 29th and 30th will take place. The main pro- 20. According to Carl Capalbo, Olomouc Half lost a battle, was in command of the Olomouc gram is scheduled for the Saturday morning, Marathon is the second largest in the country fortress in 1829–1831. He became close to August 29th. Visitors can expect performances and belongs to the best rated world endurance Olomouc, contributed to the establishment by both local and foreign military orchestras races. www.runczech.com of city parks and won the hearts of Olomouc and a ceremonial arrival of Marshal Radetzky. burghers. www.radecky.eu Beerfest is the feast of all beer connoisseurs Hanakian farmers‘ markets for connoisseurs Several dozens of breweries, mainly from Hanakian farmers‘ markets are here for and Moravia, plus a hearty portion those who like local fresh vegetables, proper of culture – concerts of Kamil Střihavka, Man- sausage, traditional delicacies, spices, jams drage, Walda Gang, Fleret, Burma Jones and and fruit juices. Products being sold here have more and more bands on two stages. been awarded with regional brands Haná, Je- Zlínský Švec, Černý Orel Kroměříž, Čech- mánek Zlín, Lišák Topolany and many other seníky and Moravská brána, Olomouc Regio- breweries which you normally do not encoun- nal Product or the Local Food of the Olomouc ter in restaurants will present their specials to Region. the public. Every year there is something new Markets always take place on Horní Square on the menu, every time hearts and taste buds in front of the Town Hall‘s archway from April of beer experts rejoice. The well proven Crown to October from 8 am to 1 pm on the following Fortress will turn into the beer capital of the days: Czech lands. Fridays: 8. 5.; 15. 5.; 22. 5.; 12. 6.; 19. 6.; The fourteenth year of the largest Czech 10. 7.; 17. 7.; 7. 8.; 14. 8.; 21. 8.; 18. 9.; 9. 10.; beer festival will take place from May 28 16. 10.; 23. 10 You will find here not only vegetables, spices to 30. Do not hesitate – we start on Thur- Saturdays: 4. 4.; 25. 4.; 2. 5.; 30. 5.; 27. 6.; and cheeses but also proper butcher products. sday, May 28, at 3 pm with a ceremonial keg 4. 7.; 25. 7.; 5. 9.; 26. 9.; 3. 10.; 31. 10 Photo MMOl tapping. www.pivnifestivalcz Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 7 Imperial fortress Olomouc presents itself

It is well known that Olomouc also used which shows the city exactly as it looked like to be a major military centre of the Habsburg in the mid-18th century. monarchy. The Imperial-Royal Fortress Olo- You can also visit other premises such as mouc belonged since the time of Empress fort XVII in Křelov, II in Radíkov, the recently Maria Theresa to the top among large impe- opened fort XXII in Černovír and fort XIII in rial fortresses of the Austrian Empire. Yet the Nová Ulice Street. The forts are being gradu- walls had been built here long before Ma- ally restored and stage historical exhibitions ria Theresa, as early as the first Přemyslids, and summer events. The fort in Nová Ulice from which time there are still some parts Street has a collection of modern military preserved. equipment from the second half of the 20th The fortress had its glory days in the 18th century on display. and 19th centuries. Today, visitors can expe- Each of the forts attracts tourists keen on rience how life was like here back in those culture and heritage. Fort Křelov, for exam- days. While for decades parts of the defen- ple, holds a lot of social events throughout ce system were out of public reach, as they the year, including programs for schools belonged to the army, in recent years they Though the forts were utilitarian buildings, they called C. K. Kinematograf as well as music are getting involved in the life of the city. are nice to look at too. Photo MMOl and theater performances. Meet the Olo- The Crown Fortress engages increasingly in and theater performances. In the Baroque mouc Fortress. Try to evoke the feeling of social events – it hosts the City Fest, Letní gunpowder magazine, there is an exposi- such moments, for example, when 200,000 Letná festival, the popular Olomouc Beer- tion of the history of the Olomouc fortress soldiers were waiting here for the Prussian fest and people also come here to see film and a gorgeous model of fortified Olomouc, enemy in 1866. www.cisarska-pevnost.cz

Contact and opening hours Family II: CZK 150 Fort (Fest) II Radíkov Baroque gunpowder magazine (2 adults + 2–3 children 6–15 years) V., VI., IIX., IX. Saturday and Sunday 11–17 at the Crown Fortress Free: children under 6 years, ZTP VII.–VIII. Wednesday to Sunday 11–17 IV.–IX: Tuesday – Sunday 9–17 www.pevnostolomouc.cz Tel.: 777 135 001 closed on Mondays Fort XVII Křelov www.pevnost-radikov.cz XI.–III. by telephone appointment VI., IIX. Saturday and Sunday 11–16 Fort XXII “Lazecký” in Černovír Tel.: 725 250 215, 604 183 977 VII.–VIII. daily except Monday 11–17 Tuesday – Sunday 9–16 Admission fee: www.forty.cz Admission fee: Adults CZK 40 Full: CZK 60 Fort XIII Nová Ulice Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) CZK 80 Reduced: CZK 30 (children 6–15, seniors For the present, tours are possible on special seniors, students, groups CZK 30 over 65, students, ZTP, ZTP / P) events or by appointment only, from July on children under 10 years of age, disabled Family I: CZK 120 it’s open from Friday to Sunday. persons – for free (2 adults + 1 child 6–15 years) Tel: 603 217 611, www.drakk.eu www.fort-olomouc-xxii.cz A fortress can also offer attractive knowledge The Olomouc fortress appeals not only to in the days when it served as a refuge for tro- military history fans. Thanks to the newly ope- ops and not science? You will learn about the ned scientific museum called Fortress of various trades, health care, construction, balli- Knowledge, the Crown Fortress has become stics and cartography, starring the erratic 18th interesting also to those who want to know the century and the army, which has always had an secrets and mysteries of science. easy access to the latest scientific and techni- Visitors can use interactive displays or walk cal know-how. You will also enjoy the landmark through a river bed and become familiar with of the exhibition in the form of a humorous co- the laws of the river system. A personal tour mic’s story on twelve large-size panels. through the nooks of an 8 meter model of the Popularization of scientific knowledge brain gives you an idea of the most complex takes place in a unique setting of a former human organ. Are you interested in distant artillery store from the mid-19th century. The worlds in the universe? The digital planeta- four-storey building underwent a thorough rium will guide you through the space. There reconstruction. It is part of the Crown Fortre- are more other tech ways to get to know the ss – a unique complex from the time of Maria scientific topics. Theresa. Its construction started in 1754 and Of course, the history of the premises is be- it later served as the main entrance to the city. Fortress of Knowledge – Planetarium ing capitalized on. What was the fortress like www.pevnostpoznani.cz Photo MmOl Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 8

The Baroque Festival is Olomoucers love good food. What an unforgettable experience about you? Excellent food and pleasant city park Incredible and colorful costumes, beautiful environs will compete for your attention on and catchy melodies, surprising scenery. Ba- the third weekend of May. Garden Food roque period, which is indelibly imprinted into Festival, a regional food and drink festival, today’s Olomouc, does not mean just palaces, will be held for the first time in Smetana temples and “serious” art. This great cultural Park. This event, unique in its scope, will epoch also includes Baroque opera and thea- not only present trends in gastronomy, inte- ter. Olomouc Baroque Festival draws viewers resting restaurant concepts and top chefs in and convinces them that the distance of se- but also products from local farmers and veral centuries need not be a major obstacle. food producers. Lovers of food and drink In July, Ensemble Damian will catch the will have the opportunity to taste delica- attention of Olomouc citizens for the thi- cies, exotic and local specialties and fine rd time. On squares and in the streets, people drinks on this park picnic. The all-day-long will know that Olomouc has returned once more even think of going to opera or theater. Baroque accompanying program will make the festi- to its favorite era when everything in the city li- operas are namely very expressive, use strong val a pleasant experience for you, your fa- terally glowed. Costumed youngsters will invi- gestures, are very emotional and resemble mily and friends. Olomouc will be the ideal te to evening performance and here and there in some way contemporary musicals. Tomáš destination for gastro-tourists on May 16 they will show a scene from a Baroque opera to Hanzlík, conductor and composer, rescues Ba- and 17. www.gardenfoodfestival.cz passers-by. And the best is yet to come in the roque operas from old archival materials and evening. The courtyard of Konvikt, a huge Ba- shortens the three or four hours long originals roque building, where students of the Olomouc to significantly shorter performances. University lived and studied in the 17th and 18th The approximately one hour performance centuries, will turn into a genuine Baroque the- is followed for those interested by an evening ater. Its functional replica, which changes bac- tour of several Baroque gems such as the St kdrop during performance, is impressive on its Michael‘s Church and the Chapel of St. Jan own. Likewise musicians and singers dressed Sarkander, where this Olomouc saint was tor- in fascinating costumes. The performance of tured to death in 17th century. recovered Baroque opera is a strong experi- The Olomouc Baroque Festival is held from ence even for those who would otherwise not July 1 to 24. baroko.olomouc.eu

Baroque Olomouc Enjoy summer evenings in Baroque Olomouc, “the most beautiful city in the ” according to the prestigious tourist guide Lonely Planet.

Special offer of summer stays in Olomouc from 1. 7. to 24. 7. 2015. Two- or three-day stay for two from EU 75! The package includes a ticket to Olomouc Baroque Festival, touristOlomoucké card Olomouc regionbarokní Card and slavnosti other bonuses.

Prepared by: Statutory city of Olomouc, in cooperation with hotel facilities of regional section of AHR CR 2015. http://tourism.olomouc.eu

Reservations and more information at www.stayovernight.eu Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 9 Museums that won‘t bore you Art Museum, Archdiocesan Museum, Regional Museum, Museum Preisler, Alfons Mucha and Otto Gutfreund as well as works of the famous Victor Vasarely. of Olomouc Fortress, Veteran Arena ... You may well call Olomouc And the most famous masterpieces? Štern- “the city of museums”. There is a range of contemporarily berk Madonna from the 14th century represen- ted Czech Gothic Art at an exhibition in the conceived museums here which offer so many treasures that one Metropolitan Museum in New York. The fas- could spend a few days here. That, of course, is not necessary cinating Troyer´s carriage was 16 meter long with six horses hitched and thrilled even the – a couple of hours will also do it... Empress Maria Theresa. Famous is the Golden Sun of Moravia, a monstrance adorned with 1,400 diamonds and emeralds. www.olmuart.cz

Regional Museum Olomouc The oldest city museum is housed in the for- mer church of St. Clare with the monastery of Poor Clares. Although founded as early as 1883 as the first Czech museum in Moravia, today it is a contemporary museum with exceptionally at- tractive and recently updated expositions. Those who are fascinated with the past can admire 1500 years of history of Olomouc and the oldest Moravian university. Visitors intrigu- ed by nature‘s secrets will be delighted as well. The Nature of the Olomouc Region is the most advanced natural science exhibition in the Czech Republic! Here you can touch, experience and learn in detail about everything possible in terms of animate and inanimate nature. Not far from the main building, in basement of the Baroque Jesuit university, the exposition The Story of Stone is waiting. Magnificent stonework, portals, statues, tombstones ... and also the really unique, over two thousand years old, ship of our Celtic ancestors! The Regional Museum manages approxima- tely one million collection items! It is no wonder If you want to know the history of Olomouc, visit the Regional Museum. You can literally touch it that it belongs to the most popular and most there. Photo MMOl sought after museums. www.vmo.cz Art Museum in Central Europe (since around 4000 BC). Jedna návštěva – tisíc let výtvarné kultury. You will pass the castle’s foundations from the Veteran Arena th MOne visit – a thousand years of art culture. 12 century, visit the equally old castle tower A museum smelling of motor oil and gaso- The motto captures one of the largest museum and find yourself a few steps from the place line? Yes, this is the Veteran Arena. The largest and gallery institutions in the Czech Republic where King Wenceslaus III was assassina- private museum of vintage cars in the Czech with over 180,000 artefacts, among them ted in 1306. The permanent exhibition called Republic features about 160 cars, motor- some real treasures of European art. More For Glory and Praise presents more than 300 cycles and an old petrol pump. All in perfect other addresses are actually hiding behind this works from Romanesque to Baroque. condition, no replicas, only originals! brand: Museum of Modern Art and the popular The Museum of Modern Art specializes in And what is essential – the Veteran Arena Archdiocesan Museum. fine art culture of the 20th and 21st centuries. openly favours Czech technical skills. The pa- The Archdiocesan Museum is an institution The permanent exposition called “The House triotic museum’s owner has gathered the lar- of European importance and the only one of of the Art Lover” represents one of the most gest collection of domestic cars such as Wi- its kind in the country. The museum presents prolific art periods from the turn of 19th and kov, Tatra, Zetka, Praga and Aero ... In addition spiritual visual culture from 12th to 18th century. 20th centuries – Art Nouveau, Modern Style, to this, visitors marvel at old radios, gramopho- It is housed in the renovated Přemyslid castle, Expressionism and Cubism. At one place you nes and over four hundred historical phones. a national monument with over a millennium of can find works of the most important missiona- Veteran Arena is simply irresistible not only unbroken cultural and architectural legacy and ries of Modern Style such as Bohumil Kubišta, for enthusiastic motorists! one of the oldest continuously inhabited site Emil Filla, Gustav Klimt, Antonín Hudeček, Jan www.veteranarena.cz Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 10

Flora Olomouc Exhibition Centre – An oratorio will a green place in the heart of the city commemorate Unique nature area, four exhibition halls, co- llection greenhouses, botanic garden and rosa- Jan Hus rium – it‘s the Flora Olomouc Exhibition Centre. 1415 – 2015. Exactly six centuries sepa- Located in the heart of historic parks, it offers rate us from the dramatic moment when the space for trade fairs and exhibitions and many religious reformer Jan Hus was burned at the other year-round opportunities. stake in Constance. Only few events influ- The Flora Olomouc Exhibition Centre Com- enced the subsequent history of the Czech pany offers rental and furnishing of both inside nation as intensely as this one. This July, we and outside areas, as well as consulting and are going to commemorate the anniversary of implementation of exhibitions, accompanying this great Czech personality in Olomouc too. programs, floral decorations and arrangements, The local native, composer, singer and tours of botanic garden, rosarium and collection writer Richard Pachman will pay tribute to greenhouses and other wide range of services. Jan Hus, Master at Charles University who longed wholeheartedly for the Church‘s pu- Historic parks the oldest and largest Czech flower event. The rification from secular corruption and ultima- tely sacrificed his life for it. An oratorio, simply The nature area of the Flora Olomouc Exhi- show of top flower cultivations, ornamental tre- called Master Jan Hus, will resound at the bition Centre is part of the cultural and histori- es and flower arranging methods brings tens of Moravian Theatre Olomouc on July 1st. cal heritage of the city. The Rudolph Alley was thousands of visitors every year. The excellent oratorio, which was awarded a popular walking place for townspeople in the by Dagmar and Václav Havel at the Golden early 19th century. Popularity of parks continu- Hall A Prague Festival in 2006, will mark the 600th es to this day – their greenery is a favourite The main pavilion A underwent a complete anniversary of the Constance’s burning. place for meetings, rest and relaxation. The reconstruction in 2013–2014. Exhibition space tourism.olomouc.eu original modest alley has grown to a green ring on the ground floor has 1700 2m , the first floor formed by Smetana, Čech and Bezruč parks of gallery has an area of 910 m2. The hall meets the more than 47 hectares. highest demands in terms of modern communi- cation technologies, air conditioning, acoustics, Sugar-free con- Exhibitions and Fairs escalators and wheelchair access. It serves for The Flora Olomouc Exhibition Centre is one organizing own exhibitions as well guest exhibiti- fectionery made of the leading Czech trade fair organizers holding ons and trade fairs, congresses, symposia, balls, two dozens of its own exhibitions and fairs each concerts and other events. A new annex building year including accompanying programs. Flora of 1090 m2 was built last year. of Tvarůžky cheese Olomouc, an international horticultural show, is www.flora-ol.cz Loštice turnover or Loštice cookie – these names would perhaps not surpri- se us at a sweet shop. Yet Cheese roll, Cheese cream horns, Cheese anise pastry or even Cheese beer pastry? At Tvarůžková confectionery in Denisova Street, these go- odies are at the right place however! Tvarůžky (local ripened curd cheese) is a specialty well known to every Czech, even if he or she has never been to Olomouc. Now it has found its way from Loštice, whe- re it’s being produced, to Olomouc. First, a cheese vending machine appeared in Olo- mouc and this year, the Tvarůžková confec- tionery was opened, run by Poštulka family. Muffins, cream puffs, rolls and cakes that one wouldn’t distinguish from their sweet originals taste great. Your tongue will perhaps wonder at first as the taste doesn’t match the appearance. You will do without calories and sugar because Tvarůžky is the least fat cheese of all cheeses. For those looking for something warm, here are hot- dogs, Lángoses, steak tartar or pancakes, all made of Tvarůžky cheese. The renovated and expanded building of the main exhibition hall. Photo: Flora Exhibition Centre Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 11

Each week concert Treasures amidst or theater Olomouc Cultural Holidays – holidays, as it should be. Thanks to them, there is always so- mething going on from late June to late August in a protected floodplain Olomouc – especially concerts and theater per- formances. It’s nice that the events are spread over several locations, such as the Town Hall’s courtyard, a stage next to the Theresian Gate or Crown Fortress’ premises. These are the big stars of this year‘s cultural holidays: the long time lead vocalist of the famous Santana band Alex Ligertwood, the South African jazz singer Mela- nie Scholtz, family band The Brew representing the classic British rock and the Irish singer Pat- ricia Kelly, a former member of Kelly Family, who has been pursuing a solo career since several years. Supporters of domestic music will cer- tainly rejoice at the legendary Krausberry blues band, funk-soul-rock Ota Balage Band and Slo- vak blues rock guitarist René Lacko. The entire program is yet to be announced, but in any case it is something to look forward to. www.olomouckekulturniprazdniny.cz

Colores Flamencos is preparing something unique! Spanish culture is best reflected by di- versity, temperament and ardor. Flamenco The paradise garden was built by the artist František Skála. Photo Oldřich Šembera dancers, guitar players and other musicians – this presentation of the lively Southern Right on the doorstep of a one Thanks to efforts of people from Sluňákov, European world has been associated with wetlands with five habitats have arisen here: hundred thousand city, one summer Olomouc for many years now. The floodplain forest, floodplain meadows, static multi-genre festival Colores Flamencos is can find an oasis of untouched and flowing water bodies and human settle- about to introduce you to the culture of Spa- ments. Finally, the centre was completed with nature with a unique eco centre nish cities and country. Its seventh year will an artificial landscape with several trails,” ex- be held from July 30 to August 2. Visitors called Sluňákov. plains Michal Bartoš, director of the Sluňákov and Olomouc citizens will become familiar center. Between natural lakes and wetlands, not only with flamenco dancing but also with The Olomouc Centre for Ecological Activi- several stops where made where people can the unique Spanish gastronomy and cinema. ties, which is the whole official name of this identify internally with the landscape. Works Most of the events take place in the open air center, is open year-round for visitors of all by renowned artists bring profound experien- on Horní Square, like the Flamenco Fiesta ages. They learn here about Pomora- ce: Paradise Garden by František Skála, Sun that reliably excites both dancers and the au- ví, an area between Olomouc and Litovel with Mountain by Miloš Šejn, Forest Temple and dience. In the meantime, a festival of Spanish preserved meandering river branches and flo- Magic Forest by Miloslav Fekar and Golden film takes place at Metropol cinema, one of odplain forests, and find out about sustainable Spiral’s Fireplace by Marcel Hubáček. the best restaurants in the city holds the Days landscape management. Since last year, the- The area is also linked to a following project of Spanish Gastronomy and another popular re is additional attractive feature here – the called Seven Gates to the Nature of Lito- place offers genuine sangria. The Flamenco House of Nature in Litovel Pomoraví. vel Pomoraví. “The project creates imaginary Fiesta will be the highlight of the festival. One A trail consisting of artistically conceived seven ways, seven stories related to journey, of the world‘s finest guitarists Carlos Pinan buildings nestled in wetlands of Litovel Pomo- poetry, water, air, earth, fire and common in- with his band and the Moravian Philharmonic raví Protected Area suggests the long tradition habitation of the land between earth and hea- Orchestra Olomouc have prepared a sym- of artistic landscape conception whose most ven,” says Michal Bartoš. Visitors can wander phony especially for this occasion – a unique famous example is the Lednice-Valtice Area. through the House of Nature with the help of piece that will never be performed again. “As late as the 1990s, this area was a water- an information map or audiovisual aids. www.flamencool.cz logged field where no one wanted to farm. www.slunakov.cz Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 12

Place where the history talks – Celebration of the 20th anniversary Olomouc Archbishop‘s Palace of John Paul II‘s visit to Olomouc This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Holy Father John Paul II’s stay in Olo- mouc. We will commemorate the Papal visit of 1995 both at the Holy Hill (Svatý Kope- ček) and in Olomouc. For more information about the upcoming festivities and accom- panying program please see www.slavnostnakopecku.cz. Celebrations schedule: Holy Hill (Svatý Kopeček) Saturday, May 16, 2015 Václav Hudeček‘s concert Basilica on the Holy Hill Adoration of VKH Olomouc students Sunday, May 17, 2015 10:30 am, Mass with enshrining of the relics of St. John Paul II, the main cele- brant: Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, Archbis- hop and Metropolitan of Cracow, Basilica on the Holy Hill prayer of the Angelus 12:30–15:00, children‘s entertain- ment, Basilica’s cloister 13:00–14:30, composed commemorative The archbishops‘ residence is the largest palace building in Olomouc. Photo P. Antonin Basler program; Basilica Admission is free. Mons. Jan Graubner, The official residence of Olomouc bishops, palace of the second half of the 17th century Archbishop of Olomouc, invites you to the a place where Emperor Franz Josef I ascended offers visitors a guided tour of representation commemorative event. the throne, where Austrian Emperor and Ru- halls with rich Rococo, Empire style and Neo- OLOMOUC-HEJČÍN, ssian Tsar discussed steps before the battle of -baroque décor and period furnishings. Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church Austerlitz and where the Empress Maria The- This year, for the first time, we offer regular Thursday, May 21, 2015 resa and Pope John Paul II stayed – all of this tours for children (on weekends and public 18:30–20:30, Concert: Antonín Dvořák: is the Archbishop‘s Palace in Olomouc. The holidays at 11 am). We try to accommodate to Saint Ludmila, Oratorio For Soloists, families who often worry about whether their Chorus And Orchestra, Op. 71, to a lib- offspring would master the long tour. The tour retto by Jaroslav Vrchlický. Admission is for children is conceived as educational and voluntary. entertaining. From April 23 to October 4, 2015, visitors can see the exhibition “Contract new and eternal. Eucharist in the visual arts” pre- pared on the occasion of the National Eucha- ristic Congress by the Archdiocesan Museum and the Olomouc Archbishopric. The exhi- bition is part of the Spiritual Axis of Moravia project and its main part is placed in the crypt of St Wenceslas Cathedral and the rest in the Archdiocesan Museum and the Archbishop‘s Palace. There is a discounted admission into both buildings (Archbishop‘s Palace and the Archdiocesan Museum). Visitors can also en- joy concerts and lectures. For more informati- John Paul II in the archbishop‘s residence, Archbishop Jan Graubner and Auxiliary Bis- on on individual events visit the hop Josef Hrdlička in the background. Entrance staircase to the archbishop‘s residence. www.arcibiskupskypalac.cz. Olomouc Archbishopric’s archive Photo M. Machacek, Olomouc Archbishopric’s archive Martin Kučera Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 13 Olomouc in the summer, Olomouc Information Centre services it‘s not just sights Olomouc in a Nutshell An hour long guided tour of the sights of The city of Olomouc has prepared a varied of the IC. Expositions at the Town Hall focus the Horní Square. The tour ends with a tour summer program for visitors of all ages and on the town’s history, the Town Hall and the of the Town Hall and climb up the Town Hall interests. Astronomical Clock and can be seen free tower. Available from June till September six The Olomouc Information Centre will of charge during weekdays. “By co-working times a day. hold themed guided city tours again this su- with the Peřej Tours agency, visitors can also Price: adults CZK 70, children from 6 to 15 mmer. Among the popular ones is the new tour Olomouc on a bike or even a four-wheel CZK 35, children under 6 and Olomouc Region guided tour “Exploring the city‘s house bike. Rafting tours of Olomouc are very po- Card holders for free, family ticket CZK 175. signs” introduced last year. pular too,” says Jitka Lučanová. If you bring This guided tour tracks the signs at Olo- your own bikes, you can store them for a fee House Signs mouc town houses, explaining their meaning. in a bicycle storage room in the Town Guided tour of house signs in the city center In addition to those familiar, such as the Gol- Hall’s archway. If you do not have your own will take place from May to September, every den Deer, Black Dog or Red Bull, there are bike, do not worry, you can borrow one at the first Saturday of the month at 10 am, on preli- many others in the city centre and each of Information Center, ČD Center or SEMAFOR minary reservation. Meeting point in front of the them has an interesting story to tell. Tours will Center. Information Center – Town Hall’s archway. be held on request only every first Saturday Admission: adults CZK 50, children, stu- of the month at 10 am. What else is new dents and seniors CZK 25, children under 12 The long-term popular tour “Olomouc in and Olomouc Region Card holders for free. a nutshell” will introduce you in an hour to in the city? the most significant sights on Horní Square. A new camp for boaters, hikers, cyclists Town Hall tower climb The tour ends with the ascent of the Town Hall and caravan drivers will open in Olomouc-Hej- A guided climb to the observation gallery of tower. From June 15 to September 30, the čín in May 2015. The camp will be equipped the 75 meter tall Town Hall tower. It is possible tour is held several times a day (9:30, 11:00, with showers, toilets, shelters, party tents and to see the former tower keeper’s chamber. 12:30, 14:00, 15:30, and 17:00). pergolas. In the summer season 6x a day, in the rest Tourists who prefer to walk the city alone Cottages are going to be built within next of the year 2x a day, always with a guide. can borrow a city audio guide or a Town three years. The project is implemented by Price: adults CZK 30, children from 6 to Hall audio guide, available at the Information Beautiful Association. Those who like 15 and students CZK 10, children under 6 and Centre. This way they can see the city centre a bit of adventure and mystery can venture into Olomouc Region Card holders for free. or the Town Hall alone, without a guide and in Olomouc’ underground with the historical Olomouc and Town Hall their own pace. association Durancia. Tours are held in several audio guide “During the summer season, the freely languages and on request. At the IC, there are headphones available accessible Olomouc churches and expositi- www.tourism.olomouc.eu; with a recorded guide to the main city sights or ons at the Town Hall are becoming increa- www.olomouc.eu/semafor; the Town Hall, enabling visitors to create their singly popular,” says Jitka Lučanová, Head www. perej.cz; www.durancia.cz own tour. The recording is available in several languages. Price: adults CZK 100, Olomouc Region Card holders for free. Refundable deposit: CZK 300. Civil defence shelter A guided tour of the shelter in Bezruč Park built as a command post for civil defence staff in the 1950s. Open from June to September. Thursday, Saturday 10:00, 13:00, 16:00. Price: adults CZK 30, children up to 15 for free. Bicycles and luggage storage Bike and luggage storage is open in the Town Hall’s archway in the summer season. Price: CZK 30; refundable deposit CZK Visualization of the emerging camp in Olomouc Hejčín. Photo Krásná Morava 100.

Information Centre Olomouc | Horní Square (Horní náměstí) – the Town Hall’s archway Tel: (+420) 585 513 385, 585 513 392 | Open daily 9:00–19:00 | E-Mail: [email protected] www.facebook.com/informacni.centrum.olomouc | tourism.olomouc.eu Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 14

A window to olomouc region spAs

airdresser – nker, h all vis , ba it Sl n What awaits you at the spa: at tma ini s • accommodation in the Balnea ce Po .. spa house with all services . Get to know the vicinity: under one roof We invite you to following • natural park Velký Kosíř with • accommodation in the stylish events: Majorka guesthouse with a brick an observation tower • 30.5.2015 Health Day with bakery • castles, museums, zoo, water park a rich cultural program and • extensive range of therapeutic • UNESCO sight in Olomouc lectures by MD. R. Gocál and relaxation treatments • you can borrow Nordic walking sticks

• we will store your bike or rent you one • 16.8. 2015 Veteran rally • pool with whirlpool

From Spa to Spa, exhibition • excellent cuisine of cars, cultural program. • friendly staff

Slatinice Spa a.s. E-mail: [email protected] Tel .: 420 585 944 599 | www.lazneslatinice.cz

Spend a wonderful summer at the spa

• medical and wellness treatments • whirlpool, saunas, swimming pools • natural healing spring • modern polarium • cosy cafes and restaurants • picturesque nature, tourist attractions

We invite you in 2015 9. 5. Traditional meeting of vintage cars 16. 5. Opening of the 462nd spa season – a daylong cultural and entertainment program 9.12. Heart Day – entertaining and educational program June to September / Sunday Promenade Concerts – cultural morning www.ltnb.cz Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Page 15

A window to Olomouc region spas Visit Therme Losiny, the first thermal park in the Czech Republic A unique thermal park called Therme water, sauna, massage, pool exercise, Losiny is taking shape at the Velké Lo- facilities for families with children, indoor siny thermal spa. As the only one of its cafeteria and summer outdoor fast food stand, kind in the country it offers a relaxing wheelchair access, year-round operation. and regenerating water world and pools Visit Therme Losiny and stay here with filled with sulphurous thermal water. many advantages. Book your accommodation With its size and focus, Therme Losiny is at our spa hotels now and enjoy many benefits. going to be comparable with the famous • those who will stay at Diana Hotel (min. Austrian Laa an der Thaya and Gmünd. 2 nights) will receive a 50% discount on Indulge yourself into a world of balance of all-day entrance fee to thermal park Therme man and nature, into a world where you can Losiny achieve harmony of body and soul. Let there- • in summer, free transport from the Diana fore the water to heal you. Encourage your Hotel to the Therme Losiny and back body with appropriate activity. Learn to relax • those who will stay at Eliška Hotel (min. your mind. Relax with your whole family. pool with sulphur water was built in the 1950s 2 nights) will receive a 30% discount on “The sulphur healing thermal water has and 1960s. Its history and popularity has in- all-day entrance fee to thermal park Ther- been a fundamental component of the entire spired us to build a unique thermal park here, me Losiny spa treatment in the thermal spa Losiny for de- unparalleled in the Czech Republic – the Ther- • we have prepared a special package cades,” says Ing. Martin Plachý, executive di- me Losiny.“ for you called “Thermals to the full” rector of Thermal Spa Velké Losiny, and adds: There are available for your perfect relaxa- www.termaly-losiny.cz “At the spa park, on the spot where now there tion, regeneration and entertainment: 9 ther- www.lazne-losiny.cz is the thermal park Therme Losiny, a thermal mal pools filled solely with curative thermal www.diana-losiny.cz Jeseník – a place full of energy “A pearl of Jeseníky mountains,” so called spa, which is considered the first hydrotherapy the atmosphere and also significantly enhan- the original German population Jeseník, centre in the world, you will agree with them. ce the therapeutic potential of the spa climate. a picturesque town hidden in a valley at the The spa is, not surprisingly, among the cleanest in the Czech Republic and is compared to the foot of Hrubý Jeseník Mountains and Rychleb- Genius loci ské Mountains at the northernmost tip of the renowned Austrian spa Bad Gastein. Another The central spa building is like straight out Olomouc region. Vincenz Priessnitz, the foun- asset of the spa is the healing power of local of a fairy tale. From the hotel, which resem- der of modern hydrotherapy, is said to state mountain springs whose water is literally living bles rather a large Baroque palace, you have due to its molecular structure. The Priessnitz repeatedly that it’s not him who does heal peo- the surrounding mountains at your fingertips. hydrotherapy has been sought after for more ple but the local region and everything that be- The view as far as the Polish lakes, the highest than 190 years. Its inclusion on the prestigious longs to it. If you visit Jeseník and the Priessnitz Moravian mountain Praděd, list of traditional folk culture of the Czech Re- fabulous Giant rocks or Še- public in 2014 proves its uniqueness. rák peak will take your breath away. Unique Balneopark Unique climate attracts visitors The Vincenc Priessnitz´s Balneopark and living water is a world rarity. It is a special “water gar- Vincenz Priessnitz appre- den” where you can paddle in brooks, try out ciated not only the beauties Priessnitz’s benches and Scotch hose. You of local nature, but also dis- should also not miss a walk around healing covered its unique healing springs with a spa guide, Gräfenberg Walking, power. Biogenic elements, outdoor fitness park, disc golf course or the naturally occurring in the ge- popular spa train. ological subsoil, penetrate www.priessnitz.cz here in small quantities into You can find us on Facebook Olomouc Tourist News | season 2015 Pege 16 Music has been at home in Olomouc for centuries Music can be experienced in strument from 1745. The initiative then led to the founding of the Organ Festival which now Olomouc throughout the whole hosts a number of world renowned artists. year thanks to the Moravian As a city with a thousand year long spi- ritual tradition and rich history of music pro- Philharmonic and festivals such duction, Olomouc is an ideal host of a festival as Dvořák’s Olomouc or Feast with a spiritual dimension. That is precisely the case of the Autumn Festival of Sacred Music of Songs. which has been part of Olomouc since 1994. Its dramaturgy draws on the legacy of famous The real treat is the autumn however. In world composers, it pays, however, attention September and October, Olomouc hosts the to contemporary sacred music as well. The International Organ Festival and the Au- festival program is as always very varied and tumn Festival of Sacred Music. rich. The absolute highlight will be the modern th The 47 year of the International Organ Czech premiere of Messa di Gloria by the Ita- Festival will take place at the St. Maurice lian composer Gaetano Donizetti on October Church from September 3 to 17. Its success 10. “It‘s a beautiful and an unknown title in our is based on interaction between world orga- country. It brings out vocal mastery of all so- nists and the royal instrument of the Wrocla- loists in demanding bel canto arias,” says the w’s organ maker Michael Engler. The festival festival organizer Dobromila Hamplová. Music was founded in 1969 with Professor Antonín will be performed by Hradec Kralove Philhar- Schindler standing by its cradle. He restored monic Orchestra and the Czech Philharmonic and expanded this unique but dilapidated in- Choir Brno. Photo MMOl

The most important events in central Moravia 2015

May Hranice rock fest – Hranice Litovel opener – Litovel Author Šela Marathon – Helfštýn Castle July Balloons over the Castle – Castle Grand Prix Mohelnice – Mohelnice Ride of the Kings – Doloplazy Fencing weekend – Castle Colonnade opening – Teplice nad Bečvou Spa Celtic Night – Plumlov September Pilgrimage to the Basilica of the Visitation of Josefkol – international wheelwright festival – Folk Year, folk festival – Velká Bystřice the Virgin Mary – Holy Hill (Svatý Kopeček) Čechy pod Kosířem Ecce Homo Historic – Šternberk March for Loštice’s Tvarůžek cheese – Loštice Hanakian Kermesse feast – Němčice nad Hanou European Heritage Days – a number Beerfest Olomouc – Olomouc Brass band festival – Dřevohostice of places in the region June Music Cultural Summer – Litovel Prostějov Hanakian festivities – Prostějov Heart Day – Teplice nad Bečvou Spa Ecce Homo Šternberk – Šternberk August European Autocross Championship – Přerov Záhorské festivities – Lipník nad Bečvou Přerov’s St. Lawrence Kermesse feast – St. Wenceslas Kermesse feast – Tovačov Venice of Hanakia – Litovel Přerov Wolker’s Prostějov – Prostějov Flowers for the lady of the manor – Náměšť October In and Beneath the Manor House – Přerov na Hané Castle Czech-Slovak jazz festival – Přerov From fairy tale to fairy tale – Náměšť na Hané Tovačov’s Portal – Tovačov Bobr Cup – Litovel Castle Kojetín’s Kermesse feast – Kojetín Fish haul of the Hradecký pond – Tovačov Kermesse feast – Náměšť na Hané Mohelnice’s Coach – Mohelnice November–December Loštice’s festival of music and Tvarůžky Hefaiston – Helfštýn Castle Christmas markets in cities of the region cheese – Loštice Šternberk‘s hill – Šternberk Castle www.ok-tourism.cz fair – Uničov Bobr Bike – Litovel Photo: Olomouc Region Archive