Plaque Of Josef Šafařík, Brno

Visiting the Plaque of Josef Šafařík in Brno, Czech Republic: A Complete Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Brno, Czech Republic, the Plaque of Josef Šafařík is a subtle yet powerful tribute to one of Moravia’s most distinguished philosophers, essayists, and poets. Located at Grohova 6—the very residence where Šafařík lived and produced much of his influential work—the plaque offers both locals and visitors an accessible window into the city’s vibrant intellectual and cultural legacy. Whether you are passionate about Czech history, literature, or simply seeking a meaningful stop on your Brno itinerary, this guide provides all the essential information for a memorable visit (Encyklopedie dějin města Brna, Go To Brno, Christiania.cz).

About Josef Šafařík

Josef Šafařík (1907–1992) stands as a towering figure in Czech intellectual life. Born in Prostějov and later settling in Brno, Šafařík’s journey took him from engineering studies to a career defined by philosophical reflection, poetry, and essays. Despite periods of political repression—including creative suppression during the Nazi occupation and marginalization under the communist regime—Šafařík’s ideas continued to inspire generations, influencing such key figures as Václav Havel and Jiří Kuběna. His renowned essay collection, Sedm listů Melinovi (“Seven Letters to Melin”, 1948), remains a milestone in Czech philosophical thought, exploring the tension between certainty and risk, science and art (Christiania.cz).

The Plaque at Grohova 6

Location and Significance

The plaque is mounted on the façade of Grohova 6, a residential building in central Brno. This address is historically significant as the longtime home of Šafařík, where he hosted gatherings of artists and thinkers and produced some of his most influential works. The plaque, installed in 2007 to commemorate the centenary of Šafařík’s birth, is a dignified bronze or stone marker bearing his name, dates, and a concise tribute to his contributions.

Address: Grohova 6, 602 00 Brno-střed, Czech Republic
GPS: 49.2016° N, 16.6022° E

Grohova Street is a tree-lined avenue with classic architecture, situated in the Brno-střed district—just a short walk from many other historical and cultural sites (Wikimedia Commons).

How to Get There

Public Transport

Brno’s integrated public transport system makes reaching Grohova Street straightforward.

Tram: Lines 3, 4, 5, 6, and 12 stop at “Grohova,” just a few minutes’ walk from the plaque.
Bus: Stops at “Konečného náměstí” and “Grohova” are conveniently close.
Tickets: A 60-minute ticket costs about 25 CZK (~1 EUR) and can be purchased at kiosks, machines, or via mobile apps (Go To Brno).

On Foot or by Bicycle

From Náměstí Svobody (Liberty Square), Brno’s central square, Grohova Street is a pleasant 10–15 minute walk. The city’s bike-friendly infrastructure also allows easy access by bicycle.

By Car

If you choose to drive, be aware that parking in the city center is limited and regulated. The nearest public garage is “Rozmarýn,” approximately a 5-minute walk from the plaque.

Visiting Details

Admission: Free; no ticket required.
Opening Hours: The plaque is outdoors and accessible at all times.
Accessibility: The site is at street level and wheelchair accessible. Pavements are generally smooth, though some uneven surfaces typical of historic districts may be present.

As the plaque is mounted on a private residential building, visitors are welcome to view and photograph it from the sidewalk at any time, but entry to the building is not permitted.

Visitor Experience and Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant weather for walking tours.
Respectful Photography: Feel free to photograph the plaque, but please avoid blocking entrances and respect the privacy of residents.
Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas and on public transport.
Safety: Grohova Street is a quiet, safe area in central Brno.

Nearby Landmarks

Enhance your cultural itinerary by combining your visit to the plaque with other notable sites:

Špilberk Castle: A 13th-century fortress and museum, 10 minutes on foot (The Crazy Tourist).
Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul: Brno’s Gothic landmark, a 15-minute walk, with panoramic city vistas (Destination Abroad).
Moravian Gallery: The country’s second-largest art museum, located on nearby Husova Street (Go To Brno).
Náměstí Svobody (Liberty Square): Brno’s vibrant main square, lined with shops, cafés, and historical architecture.

Guided and Self-Guided Tours

While there are no regular tours dedicated solely to the Plaque of Josef Šafařík, many Brno city walking tours include it upon request as part of a broader exploration of the city’s intellectual and literary heritage. Local guides provide rich context about Šafařík’s beliefs and Brno’s cultural history (Go To Brno). For a flexible alternative, the Audiala app offers self-guided audio tours with insightful commentary (Audiala).

Cultural and Educational Significance

The Plaque of Josef Šafařík is not only a historical marker but also a site of reflection on the resilience of creative thought under political oppression. It is a focal point during commemorative events like anniversaries of Šafařík’s birth or death, which may include public readings, lectures, or walking tours. For students and enthusiasts of philosophy, Czech literature, and European intellectual history, this understated monument is a meaningful part of Brno’s public art landscape (Encyklopedie dějin města Brna).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, the monument is free and accessible at any time.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Many city walking tours include the plaque upon request. The Audiala app also offers self-guided options.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, Grohova Street is paved and generally accessible.

Q: Can I go inside the building?
A: No, the plaque can be viewed from the sidewalk only as it is affixed to a private residence.

Q: What are the closest public transport stops?
A: “Grohova” tram and bus stops, both within a 5-minute walk.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Visiting the Plaque of Josef Šafařík in Brno is a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s legacy of critical thought, artistic achievement, and creative resilience. Its central location and proximity to other landmarks make it an ideal addition to your Brno itinerary. To enrich your experience, consider joining a guided tour, downloading the Audiala app for in-depth audio commentary, or exploring related resources through Brno’s official tourism sites.

Plan your visit to honor Josef Šafařík’s enduring influence—and discover the spirit of inquiry and creativity that continues to shape Brno today.

Essential Information

Address: Grohova 6, 602 00 Brno-střed, Czech Republic
GPS: 49.2016° N, 16.6022° E
Public Transport: Tram stop “Grohova” (lines 3, 4, 5, 6, 12)
Admission: Free
Opening Hours: Always accessible

For more, visit Go To Brno.

Sources and Further Reading

Discover the Josef Šafařík Monument in Brno: Visiting Information, History, and Legacy, 2025, Encyklopedie dějin města Brna (Encyklopedie dějin města Brna)
Visiting the Plaque of Josef Šafařík in Brno: History, Location, and Visitor Tips, 2025, Christiania.cz (Christiania.cz)
Location and How to Visit, 2025, Go To Brno (Go To Brno)
Visiting the Josef Šafařík Plaque in Brno: History, Tours, and Visitor Information, 2025, Masaryk University Travel Guide (Masaryk University Travel Guide)