Cathedral of St. Peter & Paul: Brno's Iconic Petrov
At exactly eleven o'clock each morning, the bells of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul chime twelve times, declaring that it is noon. Locally known as Petrov, this active Roman Catholic cathedral sits atop Petrov Hill in central Brno. It forms the defining silhouette of the city's skyline, situated directly above the Cabbage Market (Zelný trh) and opposite Špilberk Castle.
Architectural Evolution
The site originated in the 11th century as a Romanesque chapel and was expanded into a basilica during the 13th century. By the 14th century, the structure was rebuilt in the Gothic style. Originally functioning as a collegiate church, it was officially elevated to the seat of the Diocese of Brno in 1777.
The cathedral suffered severe damage during the Thirty Years' War. In the 18th century, architect Mořic Grimm remodeled the interior in a predominantly Baroque style. The striking exterior, highlighted by 84-meter-high Neo-Gothic twin spires, is a much later addition. Designed by architect August Kirstein, these spires were constructed between 1901 and 1909.
The Legend of the 11 AM Noon
The cathedral is deeply intertwined with a famous local legend dating back to the 1645 Swedish siege of Brno. Swedish General Lennart Torstenson vowed to retreat if the city did not fall by noon on August 15. Upon hearing of this vow, Brno defender Jean-Louis Raduit de Souches ordered the bell ringer to strike noon at 11:00 AM. The trick was successful, prompting the Swedish forces to call off the siege and retreat.
Today, the tradition continues. Twelve full bell chimes resonate across the historic center at 11:00 AM. This unique custom is also mirrored by a modern black astronomical clock on nearby Náměstí Svobody, which releases a glass souvenir marble daily at exactly eleven o'clock to commemorate the cathedral's legend.
Exploring the Cathedral and Crypt
The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul continues to operate as the seat of the Bishop of Brno. The main cathedral nave is open to the public for free. Inside, the architecture features a prominent Baroque design and includes the notable 'Kapistránka' pulpit. This fixture commemorates the Franciscan friar St. John of Capistrano, who preached in Brno in 1451.
Paid admission grants access to the cathedral towers for elevated views of the city. Visitors can also explore the underground crypt, which displays the archaeological remains of the original Romanesque basilica.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its religious and historical roles, the cathedral is a prominent symbol of Czech culture. The defining silhouette of Petrov Cathedral is famously featured on the reverse side of the standard Czech 10 CZK coin, designed by Ladislav Kozák.
FAQ
Why does the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul ring its noon bells at 11 AM?
During the 1645 Swedish siege of Brno, a Swedish general vowed to retreat if the city did not fall by noon on August 15. A local defender tricked the army by having the cathedral bells ring noon at 11:00 AM, causing the Swedish forces to call off the siege and retreat.
Can the public visit the interior of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul?
Yes, the main nave of the cathedral is free to visit. There is a paid admission fee to access the cathedral towers and the underground crypt, which contains the archaeological remains of the original Romanesque basilica.
How tall are the spires on the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul?
The Neo-Gothic twin spires of the cathedral are 84 meters high. They were added to the building between 1901 and 1909 by architect August Kirstein.
