Why Visit the Palacký University Arts Centre Atrium?

The Palacký University Arts Centre is a cultural hub. It is located in a building known as the Konvikt. This site served as a Jesuit college for centuries. Today, it houses university departments and art galleries. The Palacký University Arts Centre atrium is the heart of the complex. It features large open spaces and beautiful stone arches. It is a great place to see how history meets modern education.

The building is full of Jesuit college Konvikt building details that amaze visitors. You can walk through high corridors and look into quiet courtyards. The atrium often hosts student exhibitions and small concerts. It feels like a living museum rather than a dusty university. Visiting in 2026 allows you to see the latest restoration work. The space remains one of the best hidden spots in Olomouc for architecture lovers.

10 Best Things to See Near Palacký University Arts Centre Atrium

Olomouc is easy to navigate on foot. Most of these sights are within a ten-minute walk. Use this list to plan your route through the historic center. Here are our top picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: Palacký University Arts Centre Atrium
• Best for history: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Bezručovy sady
• Best free activity: Lower Square Fountains

1. Name: Palacký University Arts Centre Atrium Type: Sight/Experience Why go: To see the stunning Baroque courtyard and enjoy the student atmosphere. Best for: Architecture fans and photographers. Where: Univerzitní Street. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the public areas. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Look for cultural events at Palacký University Arts Centre during your stay.
2. Name: Corpus Christi Chapel Type: Sight Why go: This is one of the most beautiful Baroque chapels in Central Europe. Best for: Art history lovers. Where: Inside the Arts Centre building. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Usually free, but check for concert schedules. Getting there: Located on the upper floors of the Konvikt. Tip: The acoustics here are incredible if you catch a rehearsal.
3. Name: St. Michael's Church Type: Sight Why go: It features three distinct domes and a rich Baroque interior. Best for: Spiritual seekers and history buffs. Where: Žerotínovo Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A 2-minute walk from the Arts Centre. Tip: Ask about St. Michael's Church underground access to see the old cellars.
4. Name: Bezručovy sady Type: Nature/Park Why go: This park runs along the old city walls and offers great views. Best for: A relaxing walk or picnic. Where: Directly below the Arts Centre walls. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the stairs near the university. Tip: Explore the Bezručovy sady hidden corners to find secret statues.
5. Name: Villa Primavesi Type: Sight Why go: A stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture with a lovely garden. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Na Hradě Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for guided tours. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the atrium. Tip: Check the Villa Primavesi garden and tours schedule in advance.
6. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: Museum Why go: It hosts a vast collection of modern and ancient art. Best for: Rainy days and culture. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Check the Olomouc Museum of Art site for current prices. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the university. Tip: The view from the top-floor windows is fantastic.
7. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. Best for: Seeing the city's most famous landmark. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 7-minute walk from the atrium. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball on the column's side.
8. Name: Lower Square Fountains Type: Sight Why go: Olomouc is famous for its collection of Baroque fountains. Best for: A casual stroll. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Upper Square. Tip: These fountains are beautifully lit at night.
9. Name: Hradisko Monastery Type: Day trip/Sight Why go: Known as the "Moravian Escorial," it is a massive, grand building. Best for: Those wanting to see grand architecture away from crowds. Where: Northern edge of the city. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Fee for guided tours. Getting there: Short bus ride or 25-minute walk. Tip: Use a Hradisko Monastery non-touristy guide to plan your visit.
10. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: Day trip Why go: A hilltop basilica with panoramic views of the entire region. Best for: Nature and views. Where: 8 km from the city center. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free (bus fare required). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: Follow the Svatý Kopeček nature trails for a great hike.

Planning Your Visit to the Arts Centre in 2026

Visiting the Palacký University Arts Centre atrium is easy. The building is usually open during university hours. It is best to visit on weekdays. This is when the building is full of life. You can see students working on projects or heading to class. On weekends, it is much quieter and better for photos.

Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for special events. The atrium often hosts film festivals or art fairs. If you visit in the evening, the lighting is very dramatic. Most areas are accessible to the public. However, some classrooms may be restricted. Always be respectful of students who are studying nearby.

Hidden Gems and Local Tips for Olomouc

After seeing the atrium, explore the nearby streets. The university district is full of small cafes. Many of these are hidden in courtyards. They offer great coffee and a quiet place to rest. You can find some of these in a guide to hidden cafes and speakeasies in Olomouc. It is a great way to experience the local lifestyle.

For the best photos, head to the city walls. They offer a unique perspective of the university building. You can see how the old fortifications protect the city. Many people miss these viewpoints. They are perfect for catching the sunset over the towers. Olomouc is a city that rewards those who take their time to wander.