The History of Gustav Klimt and Villa Primavesi

The story begins with Otto and Eugenia Primavesi. They were influential figures in the Moravian banking world. The couple wanted a modern home that reflected their status. They commissioned architects Franz von Krauss and Josef Tölk. The villa was completed between 1905 and 1906. It became a social hub for famous artists. Gustav Klimt was a very close friend of the family. He spent a lot of time here during his visits to Olomouc.

Klimt’s role in the house was more than just a guest. He advised the family on their extensive art collection. He even painted famous portraits of Eugenia and their daughter Mäda. These works are now world-renowned masterpieces. You can learn more about these connections at the Olomouc Museum of Art. The villa also features work by sculptor Anton Hanak. He lived and worked in the house for many years. This collaboration created a unique total work of art.

Before you go, check is Villa Primavesi open to the public for current hours. The history of the building changed after the family left. It served as a clinic for many decades. Thankfully, the villa was restored to its former glory in the 1990s. Now, it serves as a restaurant, gallery, and apartments. It remains one of the most important Art Nouveau buildings in the country.

10 Highlights of a Villa Primavesi Art Nouveau Visit

To fully enjoy the history of Gustav Klimt and Villa Primavesi, follow this list. These items cover the villa and related sites in the city.

1. Name: Villa Primavesi Exterior Type: Sight Why go: See the blend of modernism and Art Nouveau. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the city walls. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: A short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the unique curved balconies.
2. Name: The Art Nouveau Staircase Type: Sight Why go: It is a masterpiece of early 20th-century design. Best for: Interior design lovers. Where: Inside the main entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in tour price. Getting there: Entrance is through the main villa door. Tip: Notice the intricate wood carvings and metalwork.
3. Name: Anton Hanak Sculptures Type: Art Why go: Hanak was a leading sculptor of the era. Best for: Art historians. Where: Throughout the villa and garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Find the "Living Stream" fountain in the garden.
4. Name: Klimt Portrait Legacy Type: Experience Why go: Learn where the famous Mäda Primavesi portrait was inspired. Best for: Klimt fans. Where: The villa's private rooms. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Part of the guided tour. Getting there: Located on Pekární street. Tip: Ask the guide about Klimt’s specific room.
5. Name: Villa Primavesi Restaurant Type: Experience Why go: Dine in the original dining room of the family. Best for: Foodies. Where: Ground floor. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Accessible from the garden entrance. Tip: Book a table by the window for garden views.
6. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: Museum Why go: It holds many pieces related to the era. Best for: Deep historical context. Where: Denisova street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Around 100-200 CZK. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the villa. Tip: Check the permanent "Century of Relativity" exhibit.
7. Name: Art Nouveau Walking Tour Type: Activity Why go: See other hidden gems in the city. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Starts at the Town Hall. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Usually 300-500 CZK. Getting there: Book via the Art Nouveau architecture walking tour. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones.
8. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning baroque basilica on a hill. Best for: Viewpoints and spirituality. Where: 8km from the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free entry; bus fare needed. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: Visit the zoo nearby if you have kids.
9. Name: Kroměříž Archbishop's Palace Type: Day trip Why go: A UNESCO site with incredible art galleries. Best for: History buffs. Where: Kroměříž (45 mins away). Time: Full day. Cost: 200-400 CZK for tours. Getting there: Direct train from Olomouc station. Tip: The Flower Garden is world-famous.
10. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Best for: Photographers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Heart of the city. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully lit.