jubilejní Kolostůjova kašna Fountain

Welcome to Teplice. As you stand here in the tranquil heart of Lázeňský Park, take a moment to simply breathe and listen. Perhaps you can hear the gentle rustle of the surrounding trees or the distant, soothing sounds of the spa town. Right before you stands a monument that serves as a silent witness to the long and storied history of this place. You are looking at the Jubilejní Kolostůjova kašna. This fountain is more than just a beautiful structure; it is a celebration of the very element that made Teplice famous: the life-giving, healing waters that rise from beneath the earth.

As you observe the fountain, let your eyes wander over its form. You are witnessing a piece of history crafted in 1862. It was built during a time when the world was looking back to the grandeur of the past to find inspiration for the present. This is why the fountain is designed in the neoromanesque style. Notice the sense of weight and permanence in its construction, a style that seeks to evoke the strength and dignity of ancient eras. The structure is centered around a striking column, and as you look closer, you will see the fountain is composed of hexagonal basins. These geometric shapes provide a sense of balance and order, guiding the eye toward the central elements of the design.

Now, I invite you to lean in a little closer and direct your attention to the most peculiar and charming detail of the entire monument. Look at the sculptures of the pig heads from which the water flows. It might seem an unexpected choice for such a formal monument, but these figures are the key to understanding why this fountain exists. These pig heads are not merely decorative; they are a direct tribute to the very legend that defines the identity of these springs.

To understand the significance of those sculptures, we must travel back much further than the year 1862. We must go back to the year 762, to a time of legends and mystery. According to local lore, the discovery of these miraculous healing springs was not the work of a scholar or a king, but rather a moment of chance involving animals. The legend tells us of Václav Hájek z Libočan, who is credited with the discovery of these waters. But the most enchanting part of the story is that it was pigs that led the way. It is said that the pigs, while rooting in the earth, stumbled upon the bubbling, warm springs, revealing the hidden treasure of Teplice to the world. By placing these pig head sculptures on the Jubilejní Kolostůjova kašna, the architects Adolf Siegmund and Heinrich Otto Siegmund ensured that this humble yet profound moment of discovery would never be forgotten. Every time the water flows from those sculptures, it reenacts that ancient moment of connection between nature and humanity.

The fountain you see today is a testament to the enduring respect Teplice has for its heritage. While it was originally constructed in the mid-19th century to commemorate these springs, it has not remained unchanged through the centuries. The monument has required careful hands to ensure its survival. In 1994, a major reconstruction was undertaken, a vital effort dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the fountain. This work ensured that the intricate details and the structural integrity of the neoromanesque design were maintained for future generations to admire.

Furthermore, the very ground you are standing on is part of a larger historical vision. In 2011, significant efforts were initiated to restore the overall appearance of Lázeňský Park to its glorious 19th-century splendor. This means that when you look at the Jubilejní Kolostůjova kašna, you are seeing it in its intended context—as a centerpiece of a grand, historical spa garden designed to offer peace, beauty, and a sense of wonder to every visitor.

As you stand here, perhaps you can feel the connection between the past and the present. The water flowing from the Jubilejní Kolostůjova kašna is a continuous thread that links the legendary discovery by Václav Hájek z Libočan to the modern visitors of Teplice. It is a reminder that greatness often begins with the simplest of discoveries, sometimes even found by the most unexpected creatures.

Take your time to appreciate the play of light on the water and the craftsmanship of the Siegmund architects. There is no rush. The fountain has stood here for over a century and a half, and it is in no hurry to go anywhere. Once you have finished your contemplation here, I encourage you to continue your journey through Lázeňský Park. Wander along the paths, discover the hidden corners of the gardens, and let the atmosphere of this historic spa town wash over you. There is so much more to explore in Teplice, and every step you take is a step through layers of history. Thank you for listening, and enjoy the rest of your walk.