#LifeInCzechia We’re in the middle of summer, which means our gardens, orchards, and greenhouses are filled with this year’s bounty of produce, including berries, pit fruits and veggies such as tomatoes and cucumbers. Meadow flowers are also in season. You can find all of this (and more) in one magical spot in Brno – the Vegetable Market in the city centre.
Locals and tourists alike enjoy the market’s bounty
Historical landmark
Brno’s Vegetable Market is a historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction. Although it looks like a regular farmer’s market, it hides a lot of history and culture.
The square was built in the 13th century and in the past, it served also as a place of justice. For instance, there used to be a cage of crazies where drunken people were locked to sober up and a pillar of justice for pickpockets and swindlers at the bottom part of the square.
The Parnas fountain and other monuments
The Parnas fountain in the centre of the square was built in the 17th century. It was built in the renaissance style, which is why it offers sights from ancient Greek mythology. If you look closely, you’ll be able to see a small cave with Hercules dressed in a lion’s skin, Cerberus the dog – guardian of the underworld, and an allegory of Europa on top of the cave representing the Holy Roman Empire.
Other important buildings, businesses, and monuments located in the square include the Goose on a String experimental theatre, Theatre Reduta, the outlandish statue of teen Mozart, and the popular aviary-themed bar Air Cafe.
If you want to learn more about the history of the market, we recommend that you visit its underground passageways known as the Labyrinth under the market where you’ll be able to see the cage of crazies and examples of wine and beer making in the historical cellars.
The market also offers pastries and baked goods!
Produce, plants, seedlings, and pastry
Although the Vegetable Market is known mainly for its vegetables, that’s definitely not the only thing you’ll find there. Locals and tourists alike go to the market to purchase seasonal fruits (right now that means strawberries, cherries, currant, and pit fruits), all kinds of herbs (e.g. dill, basil, mint, chives, thyme, etc.) and even proper seedlings (e.g. tomatoes or strawberries) if you want to start your own garden.
Additionally, you can buy cut flowers there. Seasonal summer flowers include sunflowers and traditional meadow flowers such as marigolds, different types of grasses, and crested dog’s tails.
If you’re not a fan of vitamins, you’ll also find delicious pastry and other baked goods, including fresh bread and kolaches.
The market also includes a roofed part where pop-ups and different events (including JobSpin) take place.
So come on down to the market and enjoy its delicious produce!
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