History of the Labyrinth under Vegetable Market

The history of the Labyrinth under Vegetable Market began in the middle ages. Merchants needed cold places to store their goods. They dug deep cellars under their houses in the 13th century. These cellars were not originally connected to each other. Over time, the network grew as owners expanded their storage space.

The tunnels served many practical purposes for the city. They kept beer and wine at a constant temperature. They also protected food from rotting during the warm months. You can still see the original masonry in many sections. This stonework shows the skill of medieval builders in Moravia.

During the 2009 renovation, the city connected these separate cellars. This created the unified tourist route we see today. The Labyrinth under Vegetable Market opened to the public in 2011. It now stands as a testament to the city's mercantile past. It is one of the best things to do in Brno for history buffs.

Exploring these depths feels like stepping back 400 years. The air is damp and smells of old stone. You can almost hear the echoes of merchants haggling above. It is a vital part of the city's architectural heritage. Understanding the underground helps you understand the surface world better.

What You Will See During the Tour

The tour takes you through several distinct themed sections. One of the highlights is the reconstructed alchemy laboratory. It recalls a time when Brno was a center for early science. You will see glass flasks, furnaces, and strange herbs. It feels mysterious and slightly magical in the dim light.

You will also visit the old wine cellar and tavern. These areas show how locals socialized in the 17th century. The displays include period-accurate barrels and drinking vessels. It highlights the importance of Moravian wine to the local economy. You can imagine the lively atmosphere of a medieval pub here.

Another section focuses on historical punishments and daily life. You will see a replica of a pillory and a cage of fools. These exhibits explain how the city maintained order in the past. It is a bit dark but very informative. The guides provide excellent context for these grim artifacts.

The labyrinth also features displays of medieval lighting. You will learn how people navigated these dark tunnels before electricity. They used torches, oil lamps, and candles. The shadows on the walls add to the eerie vibe. It is a sensory experience that goes beyond a standard museum visit.

Pros and Cons of the Underground Experience

Pros:

• Unique Atmosphere: There are few places like this in Central Europe.
• Great for Summer: The temperature stays at a cool 12 degrees Celsius.
• Educational: The exhibits are well-designed and full of historical facts.
• Central Location: It is easy to find in the heart of the Old Town.

Cons:

• Physical Strain: There are 212 steps to climb throughout the tour.
• Language Barriers: English tours are less frequent than Czech ones.
• Claustrophobia: Some passages are narrow and have low ceilings.
• No Photography: Taking photos is often restricted in certain areas.

Best for: History enthusiasts, families with older children, and curious travelers.

Skip if: You have severe knee problems or suffer from claustrophobia.

Alternative: If you want history without the stairs, visit the Villa Tugendhat for modern architecture.

Practical Tips for Your Visit in 2026

Planning your visit to the Labyrinth under Vegetable Market is straightforward. You should always check the official site for current opening hours. In 2026, tours are expected to run every hour. However, English tours may only happen a few times per day. It is wise to book your tickets at least 48 hours in advance.

The entrance is located at Zelný trh 21. Look for the modern glass structure near the top of the square. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. The stone floors can be slippery due to the high humidity. Also, bring a light jacket or sweater even in July.

Getting there is easy using the local tram system. You can check schedules on the DPMB website for the latest routes. Most trams stop at nearby Náměstí Svobody or Hlavní nádraží. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to the market. This area is also home to the Old Town Hall and Brno Dragon.

After your tour, spend some time in the market above. You can buy fresh fruit, flowers, or local snacks. It is the perfect way to transition back to the modern world. Many of the best museums in Brno are within walking distance. Use your time underground as a starting point for exploring the city center.

How it Compares to Other Brno Attractions

Brno has a massive underground world to explore. The Labyrinth under Vegetable Market is the most varied of these sites. If you want something more intense, try the St. James Ossuary. That site is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. It is smaller but much more haunting than the labyrinth.

For a military perspective, head to the Spilberk Castle and Casemates. Those tunnels were used as a brutal prison for many years. They are much wider and colder than the market tunnels. The labyrinth feels more like a living museum of daily life. The casemates feel like a fortress designed for war.

If you only have time for one underground site, choose the labyrinth. It offers the best mix of history, science, and social life. It provides a broad overview of how the city functioned for centuries. It is less specialized than the ossuary or the nuclear bunkers. This makes it the most accessible choice for general tourists.

You can easily visit the labyrinth and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in one morning. They are only a few hundred meters apart. This allows you to see the city from its highest and lowest points. It is a great way to experience the full scale of Brno's history. Your 2026 trip will be much richer for it.