Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic. With a population of almost 400,000 residents, it offers the fun and excitement of a larger city with the safety and convenience of a smaller town. It is considered one the major seats of Moravian culture and achievement.

History

Brno has been historically Moravian and Bohemian. After the Industrial Revolution, it was the manufacturing center of Moravia. It has always been technologically advanced, becoming the first city in its district to adopt gas lighting, a municipal tram system, and, later, electrical lighting. In the early twentieth century Brno became an academic center as well with the opening of Masaryk University. Although it was annexed by Germany during World War II, it maintained its Czech identity and loyalty, and regained autonomy quickly.

Art & Museums

There are numerous museums in Brno with a range of fine art and historical antiquities. The Dietrichstein palace is home to one of these museums, which features artifacts from Moravian history and information on indigenous plants, animals, and minerals from the area surrounding Brno. The city is filled with statues and fountains that will thrill art lovers, from the immense, ornate Parnaus Fountain to the ancient statues in Petrov Garden. Architecture lovers won't want to miss a tour of 17th century Špilberk Castle or the 15th century Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. For modernists, the functionalist Villa Tugendhat has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Nightlife

Brno is home to a booming nightlife, with a variety of night clubs that are perfect for dancing until early morning hours as well as more sedate pubs. Charlie's Hat is a favorite pub in Brno's old town. Reflex and 7 Nebe are both popular dancing spots.

How to get there

Visitors can get to Brno by flying into the Brno-Turany Airport. It can also be reached by car or bus from both the D1 and the D2 motorways. It is a major railway stop and can be visited by train from almost any Czech railroad station.