ICOM Prague 2022 | Brno: A crossroad of cultures

Brno: A crossroad of cultures; The ‘Prison of the Nations’ and the Museum of Romani Culture

Architecture Craft Folklore History sights

Brno has been building its image as a modern metropolis connected with new concepts in art and architecture since the early 20th century. However, its history is much older than that. Join us in immersing ourselves in the medieval architecture perched on a rocky hill above the city’s historical centre – a castle and a fortress called Špilberk which dates back to the 13th century. The castle was a source not only of local pride at its magnificent walls, but also of fear. Its dungeons have held prisoners from all over Europe – especially during the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (e.g. Hungarian poet Ferenc Kazinczy and Italian author Silvio Pellico were imprisoned there). It even gained the nickname ‘Prison of the Nations.’

After a visit to the castle’s underground and a light lunch at the Brno City Museum, we’ll hop on the bus to see another part of Brno – the famous Cejl Street and the quarter where a booming textile industry changed the face of the city layout and has affected the city structure until the preset day. Together with guides from the Museum of Romani Culture, take a short walk focused on modern street art and murals, and learn why this area is known as the ‘Bronx of Brno.’ Guided tours of exhibitions at the Museum of Romani Culture, which specializes in the most important Czech ethnical minority, will close the day.

Recommended for members of: ICEthic, ICMEMO, CAMOC, DEMHIST