St. Michael's Church, Brno

Saint Michael's Church in Brno is a historic Roman Catholic church situated next to the New Town Hall (Nová radnice) on Dominican Square. The church has a rich history dating back to around 1228 when Margrave Přemysl of Moravia granted the small Church of Saint Michael and its surrounding area to the Dominican Order for the establishment of a monastery. Over time, the church became a significant venue, hosting sessions of the Moravian Assembly.

The church suffered considerable damage during the 17th century when the Swedish army attacked it. The present Baroque style of the church is largely attributed to the renowned local architect Jan Křtitel Erna. His work included the addition of the Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre, which is modeled after the famous chapel in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This chapel is located on the southern wall of the church along Dominikánská Street.

Saint Michael's Church is also notable for its connection to Gregor Johann Mendel, the father of modern genetics. Mendel completed his theological studies at the seminary on Dominican Square and was ordained as a priest in this church, where he celebrated his first Mass on August 15, 1847.

The church underwent a complete refurbishment funded by Lev of Kounice, a provincial judge, who established the Kounic family tomb within the church. As part of the city's development, the church was integrated into the surrounding area, reversing its original orientation to align with the local market. The church's two-spire frontage, segmented with pilasters and lesenes, culminates in a triangular gable topped by a statue of Saint Michael. To enhance the church's facade, statues by A. Riga were added in 1728, and the Mock-Gothic Chapel of the Holy Grave was introduced in 1701.

Inside, the single-nave church is flanked by side chapels adorned with richly carved pews featuring intricate acanthus leaf designs. Though the church is generally open to the public only during regular services, its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a prominent landmark in Brno.