Staré Brno, or Old Brno, is a historic district with deep roots in the origins of Brno as a settlement. Its existence is tied to a ford on the Svratka River, a shallow crossing point that facilitated trade and attracted settlers over centuries. Evidence of human activity in the area spans from the presence of Roman soldiers and Germanic tribes in the 2nd and 3rd centuries to Slavic settlements beginning in the 6th century. Notably, artifacts from the Great Moravian Empire (8th–9th centuries) and remnants of an early rotunda suggest the area's early significance.

The district's prominence declined after the city of Brno was officially established in 1243, relegating Staré Brno to a suburban role. The Thirty Years' War in the 17th century further devastated the area, as it lacked defensive walls and fell victim to Swedish sieges. Staré Brno's industrialization began in the late 18th century, taking advantage of its flat terrain and proximity to water. Factories flourished, making it a hub for working-class communities. The incorporation of Staré Brno into the city in 1850 marked a shift, though it maintained its identity as a katastrální území, or cadastral unit.

Despite suffering extensive damage during World War II and undergoing ill-conceived urban redevelopment in the 1960s, Staré Brno has retained its historical charm. Recent years have seen a surge of gentrification, with its proximity to the city center and excellent transport links making it increasingly attractive. The ongoing revitalization efforts aim to balance preservation of its historic character with modernization.