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Dolní Věstonice

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Dolní Věstonice is one of the world's most significant Upper Paleolithic archaeological sites, located at the base of the Pálava Hills in South Moravia. The site gained international fame with the discovery of the 'Venus of Dolní Věstonice', a small ceramic figurine of a nude female dated to approximately 25,000-29,000 BC. This artifact is one of the oldest known examples of fired clay sculpture in human history. Extensive excavations have revealed a settlement of mammoth hunters from the Pavlovian culture, showcasing advanced techniques in tool-making and artistic creation. In addition to the Venus, researchers found numerous animal figurines, remains of dwellings, and a mysterious triple burial that provides clues about Paleolithic social structures. Today, the local museum displays a replica of the Venus alongside many original finds, offering visitors a window into the daily life of Ice Age inhabitants. The site remains a cornerstone for understanding the early development of human art and communal living.

Location: Czech Republic
Top sights: národní přírodní památka Kalendář věků · svatý Michal · Dům přírody Pálavy
Nearby: Hustopeče (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-3	-1	4	9	14	19	21	20	15	9	4	-1
Rain mm	35	29	37	34	70	74	72	70	61	42	37	35

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Dolní Věstonice excavation site is an archaeological area partly open to visitors. A small on-site museum displays finds and explains the site's significance.

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Typical hours

The museum is typically open from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In winter the site is mostly closed, but outdoor areas can be accessed in good weather.

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Photography

Photography is allowed without flash in the museum. On the excavation site, stick to marked paths and avoid taking pictures of sensitive areas.

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Time needed

Allow about 1 hour for visiting the museum and walking around the site. If you want to explore the surroundings, budget 1.5 to 2 hours.

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Combine with

The archaeological site is near Mikulov, which gives a worthwhile trip with its castle and vineyards. The Pálava Hills are also worth a visit.

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Getting there

Dolní Věstonice is reachable by bus from Mikulov or Brno; the stop is a few minutes' walk from the museum. By car, park at the edge of the village and walk.

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Insider tip

Combine the visit with a wine tasting at nearby wineries, as the region is famous for its wines. Wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven.

Geography

Coordinates

48.88920, 16.65420

Facts

The Venus of Dolní Věstonice was discovered on July 13, 1925, by archaeologist Karel Absolon.
The figurine is only 11.1 centimeters tall and is made from a mixture of fired clay and bone ash.
The site contains what is believed to be the oldest known ceramic kiln in the world.
The famous triple burial discovered here features three adolescents in a unique ritual position.
The Pavlovian culture settlement at this site flourished roughly 30,000 years ago.
Due to its immense value, the original Venus is rarely displayed and is kept in Brno.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pálava Biosphere Reserve2 km · SExplore →

Palava Hills6 km · SExplore →

Hustopeče Church8 km · NEExplore →

Mikulov9 km · SExplore →

Dyje-Svratka Basin11 km · NExplore →

Lednice Chateau15 km · SEExplore →

Lednicko-valticky areal15 km · SEExplore →

Valtice Chateau18 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Dolní Věstonice (10)

národní přírodní památka Kalendář věků

National natural monument in the Czech Republic, containing fossils.

svatý Michal

Church building in Dolní Věstonice.

Dům přírody Pálavy 🏛 museum

Museum about the nature and history of the Pálava region.

🕒 Apr,Oct Sa,Su 09:00-16:00; May-Jun Tu-Su 09:00-18:00; Jul-Au💶

Děvičky 🏰 castle

Castle ruins on a hill in South Moravia.

sv. Oldřich

Church building in Strachotín.

Pavlov

Viewpoint overlooking the Pálava hills.

Archeopark Pavlov🏛 museum

Museum in the Czech Republic about Paleolithic archaeology.

sv. Barbory

Church building in Pavlov.

Děvín

Mountain in Břeclav District, Czech Republic, highest of the Pálava range.

Televizní vysílač Děvín🗼 tower

Television transmitter tower on Děvín mountain.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Venus of Dolní Věstonice?

A ceramic figurine about 25,000 to 29,000 years old, one of the oldest in the world.

Can the original Venus be seen?

The original is kept in the Moravian Museum in Brno; a copy is usually on display locally.

What does the archaeological museum offer?

Findings from mammoth hunter settlements and Ice Age tools from the region.

Are there wine tastings nearby?

Yes, the Pálava region is famous for viticulture, with many small wine cellars in the village.

Is the place suitable for hiking?

Yes, hiking trails lead from here directly into the Pálava Hills and to the Děvičky castle ruins.

Dolní Věstonice: where is it located?

Dolní Věstonice is located in Czech Republic.

Dolní Věstonice: what is there to see?

Highlights include národní přírodní památka Kalendář věků, svatý Michal, Dům přírody Pálavy.

Dolní Věstonice: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Dolní Věstonice: why is it worth visiting?

Dolní Věstonice is one of the world's most significant Upper Paleolithic archaeological sites, located at the base of the Pálava Hills in South Moravia.

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Dolní Věstonice

Best time to visit & climate