Church of St. Leopold and surroundings
The Church of Saint Leopold was built by the Brothers of Mercy, a Catholic religious order dedicated to caring for the sick and providing healthcare. This order arrived in Brno in 1747, establishing their monastery and hospital here. Their hospital, which became the oldest continuously operating hospital in Brno, served the community through many significant historical events. During wars such as the Austro-Prussian War in the 19th century and World War I, the hospital was a refuge for wounded soldiers, often operating at full capacity. After the Communist regime came to power in Czechoslovakia, all religious orders were abolished, and the hospital was nationalized. However, following the political changes of 1989, it was returned to the Brothers of Mercy, who resumed its administration, continuing a legacy that stretches back nearly 250 years.
The Church of St. Leopold
At the corner near the church is a unique pharmacy with a beautifully preserved historical interior. It's the only pharmacy in Brno that still retains its original features, including old wooden shelves, glass bottles with handwritten inscriptions, and a recently restored frescoed ceiling. Although the pharmacy is closed on Saturdays, it's worth visiting on another day to admire its historical charm while picking up modern necessities like aspirin.
The church also features four statues that were not originally part of the building. These statues once adorned a bridge crossing the river in Brno, part of a tradition seen in cities like Prague with the Charles Bridge. These statues are a small reminder of the historical bridges that connected this area of Staré Brno.
Archaeological Discoveries
Recent archaeological discoveries nearby have shed light on Brno's prehistory. Excavations just a street away uncovered Roman remains from the 2nd century AD during the Marcomannic Wars, when Roman military forces set up a temporary camp here. This marks the first confirmed Roman presence in Brno. Alongside these Roman finds were traces of Germanic tribes that lived in the area, providing insight into life before the city's founding.
Another fascinating discovery was the remains of an 11th-century rotunda—a circular stone church—found during the construction of a nearby building. Although its stones were reused for other purposes centuries ago, its foundation imprint remained. Today, visitors can view this relic through a glass floor incorporated into the design of a wine bar located on the site, making it a unique way to connect with Brno's deep history.
Around the corner is a contemporary architectural gem designed by local architect Zdeněk Fránek. Built without stairs and featuring a striking design, it demonstrates the coexistence of ancient history and modern innovation in Staré Brno, highlighting the area's layered cultural and historical significance.