Kroměříž Gardens

Flower Garden: A Baroque Masterpiece

The Flower Garden (Květná zahrada) in Kroměříž is one of the finest examples of Baroque garden design in Europe. Created in the 17th century, it was designed according to strict geometric principles, with symmetrical flowerbeds, fountains, sculptures and avenues of greenery.

Its most distinctive features include the elegant 244-metre-long colonnade, lined with statues from ancient mythology, and the central Rotunda. Step inside and you will discover an unusual attraction: a Foucault pendulum demonstrating the rotation of the Earth.

The pendulum was installed in the Rotunda in 1908 on the initiative of František Nábělek, a local physicist, astronomer and secondary-school teacher. A 20-kilogram weight hangs from a 22.35-metre-long wire, and as it swings, its movement traces a path in the sand below, providing a visible demonstration of the Earth's rotation. The Kroměříž pendulum is one of only four of its kind in the world.

Take a walk along the colonnade, admire the carefully balanced geometry of the garden or climb to its rooftop viewing terrace for a unique perspective over the grounds. The Flower Garden is a remarkable place where architecture, art, science and nature come together in perfect harmony.

Chateau Garden: A Romantic Landscape Park

While the Flower Garden is a celebration of Baroque geometry and symmetry, the Chateau Garden (Podzámecká zahrada) offers a completely different experience. Spreading between the château and the River Morava, this vast landscape park invites you to slow down and explore its winding paths, peaceful ponds and picturesque corners.

The garden was established in 1509 and has changed considerably over the centuries. Originally a vegetable and fruit garden, it was transformed into a Baroque ornamental garden in the 17th century. In the 19th century, it was redesigned as a natural landscape park inspired by the English style, giving it much of the character it has today.

More than 200 species of rare trees from Europe, Asia and America grow throughout the park. Water channels, ponds, bridges and romantic garden structures add to its atmosphere, while historic buildings such as the Pompeii Colonnade and Fisherman’s Pavilion create unexpected views along the way.

The garden is also full of life. Peacocks roam freely among the trees, while a small zoo and a variety of waterfowl add to the park’s family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you come for a leisurely walk, a moment of peace or simply to enjoy the beauty of nature, the Chateau Garden offers a welcome contrast to the formal elegance of the Flower Garden.

The Archbishop’s Château

The gardens are inseparable from the Archbishop’s Château, which dominates the historic centre of Kroměříž. The former residence of the bishops and archbishops of Olomouc is renowned for its richly decorated interiors, historic ceremonial rooms and outstanding collection of European art.

The château’s Picture Gallery is home to works by some of Europe’s greatest masters, including Titian, Anthony van Dyck and Lucas Cranach the Elder. One of the collection’s most remarkable works is Titian’s The Flaying of Marsyas. Painted in the 16th century, it is considered one of the artist’s most important late works and is a highlight of the château’s Picture Gallery.

The collection reflects the exceptional cultural and artistic interests of the bishops and archbishops of Olomouc, who brought important works of art to Kroměříž over the centuries.
 

More Places to Visit Nearby

You can vary your stay with pleasant trips into the surrounding areas. You could for example visit the town of Uherské Hradiště, which is famed for its lively folklore tradition. The city of Zlín on the other hand is inherently linked with the name of Tomáš Baťa, founder of the most famous footwear brand.