Explanation:

You’re standing in front of a fascinating chunk of Brno’s old defenses. Měnínská brána (Měnín Gate) is the last remaining medieval city gate – all the others were dismantled as the city expanded. Imagine the days when Brno was encircled by walls and you’d enter through one of five gates; this is the sole survivor of that era. Today, the gate houses a small museum (even a toy museum upstairs), blending old bricks with new purpose. In its long life, it’s seen some creative uses. In the 19th century, a resourceful businesswoman named Mrs. Navrátilová even used the gate’s basement to age Olomouc cheese (famed for its pungent smell) – she turned the tower into a giant cheese cave! (One can only imagine the aroma wafting out back then!). Fortunately for us, the air is clear now. Take a moment here to appreciate the sturdy architecture – those thick walls protected Brno through wars and sieges, and somehow outlasted them all. It’s a little time machine tucked between modern shops and streets.

Directions to next stop:

From Měnínská Gate, walk back along Měnínská or Novobranská Street and then turn left onto Jánská Street and keep walking. You’ll find Pivní Burza on your left at number 16 – the beer exchange pub where happy hour meets Wall Street!