The Story Behind the Legend of the Brno Dragon Crocodile

The legend says the dragon lived in a cave near the river. No one knew how to kill it. The town offered a large reward for its death. A brave butcher finally came up with a clever plan. He used a sheepskin filled with unslaked lime as bait.

The dragon ate the sheepskin and then drank from the river. The lime reacted with the water and killed the beast. The people were so happy they stuffed the creature. It has stayed in the Old Town Hall ever since. It serves as a reminder of the city's bravery.

In reality, the "dragon" was a gift. A Turkish delegation gave the crocodile to the city in the 1600s. It was a very rare sight in Europe back then. People had never seen such a large lizard before. This helped the legend grow over the years.

10 Best Sights Near the Legend of the Brno Dragon Crocodile

There are many best things to do in Brno during your visit. Most are located within walking distance of the dragon. You can see history, art, and great views in one afternoon. Here are the top items for your list.

• Quick picks: Best overall is Špilberk Castle. Best for families is the Dragon. Best free sight is the Cathedral.

1. Name: The Brno Dragon Type: sight Why go: It is the most famous legend in the city. Best for: History buffs and kids. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Look up at the ceiling to see it hanging.
2. Name: The Curving Gothic Pinnacle Type: sight Why go: A master builder bent the stone spire on purpose. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Old Town Hall entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Right at the Dragon's location. Tip: Legend says the builder was angry about his pay.
3. Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: It represents a bet to make a wheel in one day. Best for: Folklore fans. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Next to the dragon. Tip: Read the full Brno wheel story for more details.
4. Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best 360-degree view of the city center. Best for: Photographers. Where: Radnická street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Around 100 CZK. Getting there: Entrance is inside the courtyard. Tip: Go at sunset for the best light.
5. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: iconic sight Why go: Its twin towers define the Brno skyline. Best for: Everyone. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (towers have a small fee). Getting there: 5-minute walk from the market. Tip: The bells ring noon at 11:00 AM here.
6. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: iconic sight Why go: It was once the most feared prison in Europe. Best for: History and views. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Walk up the park paths. Tip: Visit the casemates for a spooky experience.
7. Name: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market) Type: market Why go: It is a vibrant, historic square with fresh food. Best for: Foodies. Where: Center of Old Town. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: 2 minutes from the Dragon. Tip: Try the local seasonal fruit or ice cream.
8. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: museum Why go: A masterpiece of modern architecture and UNESCO site. Best for: Design fans. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Around 450 CZK. Getting there: Take Tram 9 from the center. Tip: Use the Villa Tugendhat guide to book months in advance.
9. Name: Ossuary at St. James Church Type: unique experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Dark tourism fans. Where: Rašínova street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Around 160 CZK. Getting there: Near the main square. Tip: It is underground and stays cool in summer.
10. Name: Veveří Castle Type: day trip Why go: A beautiful medieval castle overlooking a lake. Best for: Nature and history. Where: Brno Reservoir. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Take a boat from the reservoir dock. Tip: Check the Visit Czechia site for boat schedules.

Practical Tips for Your Brno Adventure

Getting around Brno is very easy. The city has a great tram and bus network. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on any vehicle. Check the DPMB public transport site for maps. Most sights in the center are within walking distance.

The best time to visit is from May to September. The weather is warm and the markets are full. December is also magical because of the Christmas markets. Brno is generally cheaper than Prague. You will find great food and beer for fair prices.

Many museums are closed on Mondays. Plan your visit to the Dragon any day of the week. The passage at the Old Town Hall is usually open late. Always carry a small amount of Czech Koruna for small shops.

More Local Legends Near the Old Town Hall

The dragon is not the only story in town. Look for the stone virgin on the wall of a nearby house. Legend says she was turned to stone for her vanity. It is located just a short walk from the market square.

Another famous story is the Noonday Bell. During the 1645 siege, the Swedes said they would leave at noon. The locals rang the bells an hour early at 11:00 AM. The Swedes left, and the city was saved. This tradition continues today at the Cathedral.

Brno loves its quirky history and modern art. You will see many strange statues in the streets. Each one has a story or a local joke behind it. Take your time to walk and discover them all.