The Magic of Folk Art Nouveau in Brno

Dušan Jurkovič was a visionary architect. He wanted to create a style that felt truly Slavic. He combined the shapes of traditional wooden cottages with modern trends. This resulted in the stunning "Folk Art Nouveau" style. The house was built in 1906 as his own residence.

The villa serves as a bridge between the past and the future. It uses natural materials like wood and stone. Yet, it also features bold, geometric patterns. This contrast is a key part of what makes Jurkovič House architecture unique. It feels organic and cozy compared to cold, industrial designs.

Today, the villa is managed by the Moravian Gallery. It has been carefully restored to its original glory. Visitors can see how Jurkovič lived and worked. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. Every room tells a story of craftsmanship and national pride.

What Makes Jurkovič House Architecture Unique: 10 Highlights

To truly understand the city, you must see its diverse landmarks. Here are 10 highlights that showcase the architectural beauty of Brno and the Jurkovič Villa.

1. Name: Jurkovič House Type: sight Why go: This is the primary example of folk Art Nouveau in the region. Best for: Design enthusiasts Where: Žabovřesky neighborhood Time: 1.5 hours Cost: ~150 CZK Getting there: Take tram 3 or 10 from the city center. Tip: Check the Jurkovič Villa ticket info before you arrive to secure a tour.
2. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: sight Why go: This UNESCO site offers a sharp contrast to Jurkovič’s style. Best for: Modernist fans Where: Černá Pole Time: 2 hours Cost: ~400 CZK Getting there: Take tram 9 to the Tomanova stop. Tip: You must book tickets months in advance via the official UNESCO site.
3. Name: Villa Stiassni Type: sight Why go: Known as the "Government Villa," it features a mix of luxury and functionalism. Best for: History buffs Where: Pisárky Time: 1.5 hours Cost: ~200 CZK Getting there: Take tram 1 to the Výstaviště stop. Tip: The gardens are free to enter and very peaceful.
4. Name: Wilson’s Forest Type: nature Why go: This park surrounds the Jurkovič Villa and offers great views. Best for: Walkers Where: Žabovřesky Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Walk directly from the Jurkovič House. Tip: It is a perfect spot for sunset photos of the city.
5. Name: Villa Löw-Beer Type: sight Why go: This Art Nouveau villa tells the story of Brno's textile tycoons. Best for: Families Where: Černá Pole Time: 1 hour Cost: ~150 CZK Getting there: It is located right behind Villa Tugendhat. Tip: Use the garden path to walk between the two famous villas.
6. Name: Brno Exhibition Centre Type: sight Why go: It is one of the world's most beautiful functionalist fairgrounds. Best for: Photographers Where: Pisárky Time: 2 hours Cost: Varies by event Getting there: Take tram 1 to the main entrance. Tip: Look for the Pavilion A with its massive parabolas.
7. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: unique experience Why go: This Cold War shelter offers a gritty look at Brno's history. Best for: Adventure seekers Where: City Center (Husova street) Time: 1.5 hours Cost: ~180 CZK Getting there: A short walk from Špilberk Castle. Tip: Learn more about this site in our guide to the 10-Z Bunker nuclear shelter.
8. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Best for: Viewpoints Where: City Center Time: 2-3 hours Cost: ~200 CZK for museum Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova street. Tip: Visit the casemates to see the famous historical prison.
9. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: sight Why go: It features graves designed by famous architects like Adolf Loos. Best for: Quiet reflection Where: Štýřice Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Take tram 2 to the Ústřední hřbitov stop. Tip: Visit the Brno Central Cemetery official site for a map of famous graves.
10. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: unique experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Macabre history Where: St. James Church Time: 45 minutes Cost: ~160 CZK Getting there: Walk from the main Freedom Square. Tip: This is one of many hidden gems in Brno you shouldn't miss.

How to Visit the Jurkovič Villa in 2026

Planning your trip to Brno is easy with public transport. The city has an excellent tram system. You can check schedules on the DPMB official site. Most architectural sites are within 20 minutes of the center. Buy a 24-hour pass for the best value.

When visiting the Jurkovič Villa, remember that tours are guided. They often sell out on weekends. Try to visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience. The surrounding neighborhood is very safe and pleasant for walking.

Wear comfortable shoes for your tour. Many of Brno's villas are located on hills or in large gardens. Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the wood carvings. The light in the villa is best during the early afternoon.