Climbing the St. Maurice Church Tower Viewpoint

Reaching the top requires a climb up the historic south tower. You will face 206 stone steps during the ascent. The staircase is narrow and winds in a tight spiral. It is a moderate workout for most healthy travelers.

The entrance is located on the side of the church. You can purchase tickets from a small desk inside. Prices remain very affordable for international visitors in 2026. Check the official Olomouc Tourism Portal for current opening hours.

The stairs are made of solid, worn stone. Handrails are available to help you keep your balance. Some sections are quite dark and feel very old. It adds to the historic atmosphere of the experience.

Take your time while climbing the steep steps. There are few places to stop and rest mid-way. Wear sturdy shoes to ensure a safe journey up. This climb is much easier than the Olomouc Town Hall tower climb nearby.

Unrivaled Panoramas of the Olomouc Skyline

The view from the gallery is truly breathtaking. You can walk around the entire tower for 360-degree views. The Holy Trinity Column is visible directly below you. This UNESCO site looks magnificent from this high perspective.

To the east, you can see the tall spires of the cathedral. This is a great way to spot other skyline views in Olomouc. The red tile roofs create a classic European scene. It is a dream location for travel photographers.

On clear days, you can see the Jeseníky Mountains. These peaks rise in the distance far beyond the city. You can also trace the path of the Olomouc city walls walking route. The green parks look lovely from this height.

The gallery at the top is quite narrow. You may need to squeeze past other visitors. It is an open-air balcony with a safe stone wall. Hold your phone tightly while taking your photos.

Look for the Town Hall clock tower to the south. You can see the intricate details of the Astronomical Clock. The square below often hosts local markets or festivals. It is the heart of Moravian life.

Architectural History of the South Tower

St. Maurice Church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The south tower was completed in the 15th century. It features a rare double spiral staircase design. This allowed people to go up and down separately.

The stone work shows centuries of Moravian history. You can see mason marks on many of the blocks. These symbols identified the craftsmen who built the tower. It is a living museum of medieval engineering.

The church itself is dedicated to Saint Maurice. It houses one of the largest organs in Europe. You can often hear music practicing while you climb. The vibrations through the stone are quite unique.

Recent restorations have kept the tower in great shape. The stone was cleaned to reveal its original color. Safety features were also updated for modern tourism needs. It remains an authentic piece of Czech heritage.

Comparing Top Towers in Olomouc

Olomouc has many beautiful towers to explore. The St. Maurice Church Tower Viewpoint is the most central. It offers a better view of the main square. Other towers are located further from the center.

The Saint Wenceslas Cathedral tower is much taller. However, it is located on the edge of town. St. Maurice provides a more intimate look at the city. You can see the people walking below.

According to Visit Czechia - Olomouc, this city is a hidden gem. Many visitors prefer St. Maurice for its low crowds. You rarely have to wait in a long line. It is a very peaceful experience.

For a detailed breakdown, see our top towers in Olomouc comparison guide. We rank each tower by height and accessibility. St. Maurice always scores high for its central location. It is the best choice for a quick visit.

Planning Your 2026 Visit to St. Maurice

The best time to visit is during the late afternoon. The sun lights up the Town Hall beautifully then. This is one of the best sunset spots in Olomouc for photos. Morning light is also great for clear mountain views.

Check the weather before you decide to climb. The gallery is open and can be very windy. Rainy days might make the stone steps slippery. Always prioritize your safety during bad weather.

Bring a small bottle of water for the climb. You will feel thirsty after the 206 steps. There are no facilities at the top of the tower. Leave large backpacks in your hotel room if possible.

After your climb, visit a nearby cafe for coffee. The square has many excellent spots for a break. You can look up at the tower you just conquered. It is a satisfying feeling to see it from below.