JANÁČEK AND THE AUGUSTINIAN MONASTERY IN STARÉ BRNO

The history of the Augustinian Monastery in Staré Brno is linked to the names of two world-famous people – Mendel and Janáček. When Janáček came to Brno as an eleven-year-old boy in 1865, he found himself in a foundation for musically talented boys in the Augustinian Monastery of St Thomas in Staré Brno. He became one of the “bluebirds”, as the Staré Brno pupils were known due to their blue uniforms, who were given a comprehensive musical education related to the provision of music for masses and other events for the monastery. Janáček’s teacher and the director of the gallery in the monastery basilica, Pavel Křížkovský, was later transferred to Olomouc and the young Janáček replaced him in Brno. At this time, the prominent naturalist Gregor Johann Mendel was an abbot at the monastery. When Mendel died in 1884, Janáček conducted his funeral requiem. During the tour we will look at places linked to Janáček, including the foundation’s classroom and the gallery of the basilica of The Assumption of the Virgin Mary. And we’ll also listen to the bluebirds singing!

Duration of tour: 2 hours

There are barriers (a staircase) on this route.

Meeting point at the ticket office of the Mendel Museum of Masaryk University, Mendlovo nám. 1a, Brno

In cooperation with the Mendel Museum

Part of the Janáček Brno festival off program