125 Years of Brno University of Technology: the oldest university in Brno celebrates its birthday!

Brno University of Technology (BUT), the oldest university in Brno, is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, Brno will turn red, and a series of events throughout the autumn will showcase what the future of science and technology looks like.

BUT traces its origins back to the 19th century when the Imperial and Royal Bohemian Technical College in Brno was established on 19 September 1899, with the founding of the Faculty of Civil Engineering. Over the years, both the name and the university itself have evolved from humble beginnings into an internationally recognized institution known for its prestigious education and excellence in technical fields and modern technologies.

BUT’s history is tied to many significant personalities, including Armin Delong, the founder of electron microscopy in the Czech Republic; Bohuslav Fuchs, an architect and urban planner; and Otto Wichterle, a scientist and inventor. Among those awarded honorary doctorates by the university are Nikola Tesla, Tomáš and Jan Antonín Baťa, and Czechoslovakia’s first two presidents, T.G. Masaryk and Edvard Beneš, whose name the university bore for some time.

Where Technology Excels

What people see as the distant future is already being developed at BUT. Today, the university is achieving outstanding results in science and research, focusing on the development of technical fields, as well as bridging the technical and artistic worlds through fine arts and architecture, encouraging creativity in research and education. Scientists at BUT are working on future technologies like semiconductor technology, microscopy, space and aerospace technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, environmental engineering, and the circular economy.

These modern technologies will remain key areas the university will pursue in the future. Alongside them, the university is committed to other crucial goals, such as promoting technical education and advancing technological excellence and competitiveness for both the Czech Republic and the European Union.

"We see BUT's anniversary not just as a look back at our past but also as an opportunity to present our vision for the university’s future," said BUT rector Ladislav Janíček. "One of our most important goals is promoting technical education and technological excellence. Through education, research, and development, we aim to contribute to the positive transformation of the world and meet society’s needs. As a technical university, we must ensure that technology serves society and helps tackle the challenges of our time, such as climate change, cybersecurity, and sustainability. At BUT, we’ve taken on these challenges and are leading new generations of engineers and scientists to create a better future for everyone."

Brno Lights Up for BUT

To celebrate the university's birthday, Brno will light up in BUT's colors. Špilberk Castle and the main streets will glow with red lights, sending a special congratulatory message to the university. A unique panel exhibition will introduce the public to BUT’s strategic areas, scientific achievements, and future technologies. The exhibition will be on display at Moravian Square and Jost (September 16–23), then at Mendel Square (September 23–30).

The celebrations don’t end there. In the autumn, BUT experts will invite the public to explore the wonders of science, technology, and art at the Researchers’ Night (September 27), where a big surprise awaits visitors if the weather permits. BUT will also be present at the International Industrial Fair (October 8–11), where it consistently wins major awards for its exhibits.

Music and sports enthusiasts can enjoy Hudba z FEKTu (September 18), FASTfest (October 1), or the University Hockey Duel at the Winning Group Arena (October 16). The public will also get a chance to explore the artistic side of technology with the Creative Technology project (September 18–October 27), and the Space4Women debate during Czech Space Week (November 7) will highlight the role of women in the space sector.

The year-long celebration will culminate with the BUT Ball on December 6, a special event for students, staff, alumni, and friends of Brno University of Technology, and the largest ball in the Czech Republic.

For more information about the 125th anniversary of BUT, visit vut.cz/en/125.


Brno University of Technology celebrates 125 years since its foundation this year.