The Maria column in Hradec Králové, known locally as Mariánský sloup, stands as a testament to both faith and artistry in the heart of the Czech Republic. Nestled in the central part of the bustling Velké náměstí, this baroque sandstone column is not just a monument; it is a symbol of gratitude and historical resilience.
The tale of the Maria column begins in the early 18th century, during a time when the plague ravaged the Czech lands. In 1713, as the epidemic swept across Bohemia, the people of Hradec Králové made a solemn vow. A procession was sent to Chrudim to pray before the image of Saint Salvator, promising that if their city was spared, they would erect a statue in honor of the Virgin Mary.
Miraculously, the city was indeed spared from the plague, and true to their word, the townspeople began constructing the column between 1714 and 1717. The column was completed in 1717, but it wasn't consecrated until August 24, 1718, by Bishop Jan Adam Vratislav of Mitrovic. The project was generously funded by Queen Eleonora Magdalena of the Palatinate-Neuburg, who donated a significant sum from the city's revenues.
The Maria column rises to a height of 19 meters, a striking feature amidst the square's lively atmosphere. Crafted from light grey sandstone sourced initially from Boháňka and later from Podhorní Újezd, the column is a masterpiece of baroque sculpture. Atop the column stands a serene statue of the Virgin Mary, depicted with a halo of gilded six-pointed stars, adding a celestial touch to the monument.
Surrounding the central column are four statues of saints: Saint Charles Borromeo, Saint John of Nepomuk, Saint Joachim, and Saint Ludmila. Some sources suggest the presence of Saint Anne instead of Saint Ludmila. The base of the column features intricate Latin chronograms and reliefs, including the first depiction of the new city emblem—a lion holding the letter G—alongside representations of Saint Rosalia, the patron saint against the plague, and Saint Francis Xavier.
The Maria column has witnessed centuries of history and has undergone numerous restorations to preserve its grandeur. In 1791, it narrowly escaped destruction when Prussian soldiers considered tearing it down for more space. Fortunately, the pleas of the townspeople prevailed, and the column was spared.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the column saw several repairs. Notable restorations include those by local painter Jan Fink in 1812 and sculptor Josef Václav Škoda in 1915. The latter's work involved cleaning and impregnating the sculptures with fluate to protect them from the elements. In the 1930s, Bohdan Václav Škoda addressed damage from the early republican period, replacing damaged symbols and crafting new pedestals for the saints.
A visit to the Maria column offers more than just a glimpse into history; it provides an opportunity to explore the vibrant life of Velké náměstí. The square is a hub of activity, with charming cafes and shops lining its perimeter. As you stand before the column, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the balustrade and the individual statues, each telling its own story of devotion and artistry.
On the separate pedestals within the balustrade, you'll find statues of Saint Wenceslas, Saint Joseph, Saint Sebastian, and Saint Lawrence. These figures, like the column itself, have been lovingly preserved and restored over the years, ensuring that their legacy endures for future generations to marvel at.
The Maria column in Hradec Králové is more than a historical monument; it is a symbol of resilience, faith, and communal gratitude. Its presence in the city's main square serves as a reminder of the power of collective hope and the enduring beauty of baroque art. For visitors to Hradec Králové, the column offers a chance to step back in time and connect with the stories and traditions that have shaped this enchanting city.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Maria column invites you to explore its rich past and appreciate the intricate craftsmanship that has kept it standing tall for over three centuries. As you wander through Velké náměstí, let the column's elegance and history guide your journey through the heart of Hradec Králové.
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