Marian Column
The Marian column, which is a striking feature in this area, used to stand proudly close to the old town hall, as you can see in historic photographs. However, when the old town hall was demolished, the column was moved to its current location. This church, a magnificent structure, was built to serve the nunnery founded by Eliška Rejčka. However, it turns out that this isn't the first church constructed on this site. Back in the 1970s, archaeologists began investigating the area after evidence emerged of an earlier Gothic church. Their excavations confirmed its existence, uncovering remnants of the earlier structure.
The Marian Column
As they dug deeper, they made an even more surprising discovery. Beneath the Gothic church lay the foundations of a Romanesque rotunda. This remarkable find marked another discovery of a Romanesque rotunda in Staré Brno. It added to the understanding of the area's significance in earlier periods. The second rotunda further deepens the mystery surrounding the history of this location, suggesting that it might have been a site of great importance long before the nunnery was established. Some historians and archaeologists theorize that there might have been a castle in this area. While the exact location of this supposed castle remains unknown, the discovery of two Romanesque rotundas strengthens the argument. There's an ongoing debate among scholars, with some proposing that the castle may have been situated on the south side of the river, near the other rotunda. For now, it remains one of Brno's enduring historical mysteries, waiting to be unravelled.
Square Transformation
Fast-forwarding to more recent history, the square itself underwent a significant transformation in 1910. At that time, the eastern part of the square, where we now stand, was created. Before this development, the area was marked by a stream that flowed through the site. This stream was eventually covered over at both ends of the square, eliminating the water feature. Despite this change, the square maintained a rustic charm and became an appealing public space. Historic photographs give us a glimpse into what this area looked like in its earlier days. From an aerial perspective, you can see the layout of the square and how the buildings framed its boundaries. The west end of the square was particularly picturesque, showcasing a blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance. The park created within the square added to its appeal, complete with a monument to Gregor Mendel, represented by the small white structure visible in the images.
Looking at older photos, you can see the square's idyllic atmosphere. In the far corner, where a road led to Brno, there was a bridge. The road curved and climbed gently toward the city, creating a seamless connection between this charming area and the bustling urban centre of Brno. The square, with its stream and park, gave the impression of a serene, almost rural retreat, nestled within the city's landscape. While the stream no longer flows here, its legacy lives on in the historical photos and the layout of this beautiful space.
Today, the square and its surroundings continue to capture the imagination of visitors and locals alike. It's not just a place to learn about history but also a vibrant part of Brno that connects past and present in a way few locations can. Whether you're admiring the relocated Marian column, reflecting on the significance of the Romanesque rotundas, or picturing the square as it once was, this area remains a testament to the rich, layered history of Staré Brno