The Myth and History of the Arion Fountain

The fountain tells the story of Arion. He was a Greek poet and musician. According to legend, sailors tried to kill him for his wealth. He jumped into the sea to escape. A dolphin, charmed by his music, saved his life. This myth represents the power of art and survival.

Olomouc originally planned this fountain in the 18th century. However, the project was delayed for hundreds of years. It was finally realized by Ivan Theimer. He is a world-renowned sculptor born in Olomouc. He wanted to honor the city's history while adding a modern touch.

The fountain is made of bronze and stone. It sits in the corner of the Upper Square. It is part of a larger collection of best things to do in Olomouc. The design is very different from the older Baroque styles. It is tactile and designed for people to touch.

9 Highlights of the Story Behind the Arion Fountain Olomouc

The Arion Fountain is more than just a water feature. It is a complex piece of storytelling. Each element has a specific meaning. Here are nine highlights to help you understand the story behind the Arion Fountain Olomouc during your visit.

• Best overall: Arion Fountain
• Best for families: The Bronze Turtle
• Best rainy-day: Olomouc Museum of Art
• Best free: Upper Square walking tour

1. Name: The Arion Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It is the centerpiece of the modern square. The bronze figures are incredibly detailed. You can see the story of Arion unfolding in the sculptures. Best for: Art lovers and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main tram stop. Tip: Visit at night when the fountain is beautifully lit.
2. Name: The Bronze Turtle Type: Experience Why go: This is a separate sculpture next to the main basin. It is a favorite for children. It represents the slow but steady passage of time. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Next to the main fountain basin. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the Upper Square. Tip: Kids are allowed to climb on the turtle for photos.
3. Name: The Horned Dolphin Type: Sight Why go: The dolphin in this fountain is not realistic. It is a mythical creature with horns and scales. This reflects the fantastical nature of Greek myths. Best for: Fans of mythology. Where: Inside the main fountain basin. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the square pavement. Tip: Look closely at the texture of the bronze skin.
4. Name: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the heart of the city. It hosts the Arion Fountain and many other landmarks. It is the perfect place to start a walking route map for Olomouc fountains. Best for: General sightseeing. Where: City center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Most trams stop at Náměstí Republiky nearby. Tip: Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe to watch the square.
5. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It stands just a few meters from the Arion Fountain. The contrast between the Baroque column and the modern fountain is striking. Best for: History buffs. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Directly adjacent to the fountain. Tip: Read the history on the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc page for context.
6. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: Museum Why go: If you want to see more work by local artists, this is the place. It houses modern and classic Moravian art. It provides context for why the city supports modern projects like Arion. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Denisova street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Usually around 100-200 CZK. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the fountain. Tip: Check the official museum site for current exhibitions.
7. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. It shows the legendary founder of Olomouc. It provides a great comparison to the modern Arion design. Best for: Comparing art styles. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the opposite side of the square. Tip: Notice how much more formal the Baroque fountains look.
8. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This is considered one of the most artistically valuable Baroque fountains. It is part of the original set that Arion eventually completed. Best for: Art historians. Where: 28. října street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: This fountain is often quieter than the ones on the main square.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: Day trip Why go: This "Holy Hill" offers the best views of the city. You can see the spires and squares from above. It is a beautiful nature escape. Best for: Nature and viewpoints. Where: 8km from the city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free (plus bus fare). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the Basilica of the Visitation while you are there.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc's Fountains

Visiting the Arion Fountain is easy. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Most visitors arrive by train from Prague or Brno. You can then take a tram to the center. For more local info, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal.

The fountains usually run from April to October. In winter, they are drained to protect the pipes. However, the sculptures remain visible year-round. The Upper Square is also home to the town hall. You can see the astronomical clock there every day at noon.

Photography is best in the early morning. The light hits the bronze figures perfectly then. There are many benches around the Arion Fountain. It is a popular spot for locals to meet. Please respect the art and do not leave trash in the water.