Penitentiary in Brno, Former prison in Zábrdovice district, Brno, Czech Republic
The facility in Zábrdovice is a structure with Baroque and Neoclassical elements situated in the northern part of Brno between several streets. The complex comprises prison wings, guard areas, courtyards, and auxiliary buildings that reflect the typical layout of an 18th century penitentiary.
The foundation stone was laid in 1772 during Maria Theresa's reign, making it one of the early modern prisons in the region. Operations ceased in 1956 when inmates were transferred to a new location.
The site functions today as a venue for art exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts run by local organizations. Visitors can see how former prison rooms have been converted into spaces for creative activities.
Visitors can explore the facility through free guided tours, walking through corridors and cells while learning about the site's transformation. It helps to dress warmly since the thick walls keep the interior cool.
Between the late 1930s and early 1950s, a specific inner courtyard was the place where capital sentences were carried out. This dark history stands silent today, yet the walls carry memory of that period.
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