Moravské divadlo Olomouc

Moravské divadlo Olomouc (Moravian Theatre Olomouc) is one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the Czech Republic and the leading stage for drama, opera and ballet in the North Moravia region. The building stands on Horní náměstí, Olomouc's main square, right in the heart of the historic city centre, close to the town hall and the famous astronomical clock.

How old is the theatre tradition here?

Theatrical life in Olomouc goes back to the 15th century — the first record of stage performances in the city dates to 1479, tied to celebrations marking a peace agreement between Vladislaus Jagiellon and Matthias Corvinus. A further boost came with the founding of Olomouc's university in 1573, which led to the establishment of a school theatre run by Jesuits. The current building, however, is younger than this tradition: it was constructed between 1828 and 1830 on a site previously occupied by ordinary town houses.

Who designed the building?

The neoclassical theatre, with its Empire-style facade, was designed by Viennese architect Josef Kornhäusel and built by master builder Karel Biefeld. It opened on 3 October 1830. For decades it operated as a German-language municipal stage, the Königliches städtisches Theater, before becoming a permanent Czech theatre in 1920, following the founding of Czechoslovakia — continuing the building's near century-old role as a theatrical venue in a new, national form.

What has changed in the building over the years?

The theatre has undergone significant renovations, most notably in 1924 and again in 2006. The 2006 reconstruction modernised the technical facilities and interiors while preserving the historic character of the facade and auditorium. Since 1958 the building has been listed among the Czech Republic's protected cultural monuments, reflecting its architectural and historical importance to the region.

What can visitors see today?

Moravské divadlo Olomouc today runs a repertoire spanning drama, opera, operetta and ballet, combining classic works with newer productions. The theatre's ensemble regularly stages premieres, and the venue remains a central point of the city's cultural life, hosting concerts and related events in and around the building.

Where exactly is it located?

The theatre stands on Horní náměstí, Olomouc's main square, surrounded by other historic buildings that make up the city's protected historic centre — an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding area.

Frequently asked questions

Is the theatre building a protected monument? Yes, it has been listed among the Czech Republic's immovable cultural monuments since 1958.

Who designed the Moravské divadlo building? It was designed by Viennese architect Josef Kornhäusel and built by Karel Biefeld between 1828 and 1830.

Since when has there been a permanent Czech theatre company here? Since 1920, although the building itself and the theatrical tradition on this site date back further — the building opened in 1830, and stage performances in Olomouc are recorded as early as the 15th century.

Has the building been renovated? Yes, the most significant renovations took place in 1924 and 2006.