The History of the Plague Column in Svornosti Square

The Marian Plague Column is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It was built between 1714 and 1716. The monument was commissioned by Princess Marie Ernestine von Eggenberg. She wanted to thank the Virgin Mary for the end of the plague. This epidemic hit the town hard between 1680 and 1682. The column served as a spiritual shield for the citizens.

Matěj Václav Jäckel was the lead sculptor for this project. He was a famous artist in the Bohemian region. The column features a statue of the Virgin Mary at the very top. Below her, you can see eight statues of protector saints. These include St. Roch, St. Sebastian, and St. Vitus. Each saint was chosen for their supposed power to ward off disease. This site is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage area.

In the 19th century, a stone fountain was added to the base. This created a unique dual monument. It replaced an older wooden fountain that once stood nearby. The column remains a focal point for local festivals and gatherings. It is a testament to the town's resilience over centuries. Understanding its past makes a visit to the square much more meaningful.

9 Top Svornosti Square Historical Landmarks

The square is packed with incredible architecture. You should spend at least an hour exploring the different facades. Here are the top sights to see during your visit.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Marian Plague Column
• Best for families: Museum of Torture
• Best free sight: Old Town Hall exterior
• Best viewpoint: Castle Tower (nearby)

1. Name: Marian Plague Column Type: Monument Why go: It is the most significant Baroque landmark in the square. Best for: History enthusiasts and photographers. Where: Center of Svornosti Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from any part of the Old Town center. Tip: Look closely at the base to see the intricate carvings of the saints.
2. Name: The Old Town Hall Type: Historic building Why go: This Town Hall building dates back to the 16th century. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Northern side of Svornosti Square. Time: 10 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free. Getting there: It is the large white building with arches. Tip: Find the four coats of arms painted on the facade.
3. Name: The Stone Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It surrounds the Plague Column and provided water to the town for centuries. Best for: Relaxing by the water. Where: Attached to the Plague Column. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the center of the square. Tip: The fountain is a great spot to sit and people-watch.
4. Name: Zlatý Anděl (Golden Angel) Type: Historic house Why go: This house features a beautiful Renaissance facade and a golden angel statue. Best for: Seeing local artistic details. Where: Corner of the square near the pharmacy. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the eastern side. Tip: It now houses a popular bakery and cafe.
5. Name: Museum of Torture Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It is located in the medieval cellars of the Town Hall. Best for: Fans of dark history. Where: Basement of the Old Town Hall. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approximately 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Enter through the Town Hall main door. Tip: It can be a bit scary for very young children.
6. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: Religious sight Why go: This Gothic church dominates the skyline and holds the tombs of local lords. Best for: Spiritual and Gothic architecture fans. Where: Just a 2-minute walk from the square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Follow Kostelní street from the square. Tip: Check the concert schedule for organ performances.
7. Name: Regional Museum in Český Krumlov Type: Museum Why go: It offers a deep dive into the history of the entire region. Best for: Educational trips. Where: Horní street, near the square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Around 100 CZK. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the square. Tip: Don't miss the ceramic model of the city.
8. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint/Sight Why go: It provides the best bird's-eye view of Svornosti Square. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Within the castle complex. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the square across the barber's bridge. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the museum and tower.
9. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Experience Why go: A world-class gallery dedicated to the famous expressionist painter. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Široká street, near the square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk through the side alleys. Tip: Visit the museum shop for unique prints.

Planning Your Visit to Svornosti Square

Svornosti Square is the center of tourist life. It is best to visit early in the morning. This allows you to see the top sights in Český Krumlov without the crowds. By midday, the square is often busy with tour groups. The lighting for the Plague Column is best during the late afternoon. This is when the sun hits the Baroque statues directly.

The square is entirely pedestrianized. You should wear comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestones can be uneven and slippery when wet. Most visitors arrive by walking from the castle or the main bus station. For more official info, check the Český Krumlov Official Tourism portal. There are many cafes around the square where you can rest.

During the winter, the square hosts a charming Christmas market. In June, it becomes the stage for the Five-Petalled Rose Festival. This festival celebrates the town's Renaissance history. Locals dress in period costumes and parade around the Plague Column. It is a fantastic time to experience the local culture. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.