Sloup svatého Floriána Statue column
Sloup svatého Floriána in Žatci is a Baroque sandstone monument from 1742-1746, which stands on the square on May 5. It was built as a memory of a devastating fire from 1738 and a symbol of protecting the city from further disasters.
The creation of the monument is linked to the events of 18 December 1738 when the Žatec hit a large fire. The fire was caused by a careless soldier with his shot at the townsman John Ernest Linksweiler's house at the Priest Gate. The flames quickly spread to the church with its three towers, school, deanery and surrounding houses. The fire hit the entire current square on May 5th and spread further north to the lorette and the city fortification. The total damage to the buildings exceeded 80,000 gold pieces. The local inhabitants subsequently organized a collection, thanks to which a pillar was built between 1742 and 1746. The author of the construction was Zetek master Jan Karel Vetter.
This Baroque monument is made of sandstone and stands on a six-sided plinth. On the plinth there are statues of St. Florian, Madonna and St. Vavríce, which accompany smaller characters of angels and volutes. The column itself is decorated with relief clouds with the face of angels. The top of the monument is the figure of God the Father sitting on the globe. The dimensions of the column are similar to those of the column of the Holy Trinity, which is located in Žatci on the Square of Liberty.
The monument was entered on the list of cultural monuments on 17 January 1964.
The building is now part of the historical centre of Žatce and is freely accessible to visitors of the square on May 5. In its immediate surroundings there is the Priest Gate, church and loret.
Sloup svatého Floriána is an important part of the baroque architecture and a specific historical record of the tragic event of the 18th century. It is advisable to visit it during a walk through the historical heart of the city.
Historical milestones
- 1738
- A big fire in the Zatec
- 1742
- Start of column construction
- 1746
- Completion of column construction
- 1964
- Writing to the list of cultural monuments
Architectural development
The column is made of sandstone and has a Baroque style. The construction was carried out by the author Jan Karel Vetter. The construction stands on a six-sided plinth and contains several statues.
Historical events
On December 18, 1738, a big fire broke out in the Žatec. Between 1742 and 1746, the column was built. On 17 January 1964, the monument was listed on the list of cultural monuments.
Points of interest
- Sloup svatého Floriána is a Baroque sandstone monument from 1742-1746. - It was built as a memory of a devastating fire from 1738 and a symbol of protecting the city from other disasters. - The fire of 18 December 1738 was caused by a careless soldier who burned a bullet at the house of the townsman John Ernest Linksweiler at the Priest Gate. The total damage to the buildings after the fire exceeded 80,000 gold pieces. - The monument was listed on the list of cultural monuments on January 17, 1964.
Guide
Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Welcome to Žatec, a city with rich history and beautiful monuments. You're standing in front of one of the most distinctive symbols of this place - the column of St. Florian. This sandstone monument greets you on May 5th, where it is projected into the surrounding architecture and attracts the attention of everyone who gets here.
Let's immerse ourselves in the history of this important monument. In 1738 Žatec experienced a tragic fire that destroyed a large part of the city. This unfortunate incident was initiated by the indifference of the soldier in the house of the townsman John Ernest Linksweiler. After the devastating fire that struck on December 18 of that year, the inhabitants decided to build a memorial to the memory of this tragic day and as a symbol of protection against future disasters.
The construction of the column began in 1742 under the guidance of architect Jan Karel Vetter. After four years, in 1746, the monument was completed and stood as a constant reminder of both the tragedy and the courage of the people of the city. Today, the column of St. Florian is recognised not only as a historical monument, but also as a cultural heritage, which was confirmed in 1964.
Take a look up at the six-sided plinth, which is decorated with statues of St. Florian, Madonna and St. Lawrence. These characters resemble protectors in times of danger. There are angels with volutes all over the column, which gives the baroque elements more distinctive and beautiful. And on top is the figure of God the Father sitting on the earth a sphere - a symbol of heaven's protection over the city of Žatci.
Among the key personalities associated with this monument is Jan Ernest Linksweiler, whose home was a torch that caused a great fire. His story is a reminder of the importance of responsibility and attention.
The interesting thing about this place is not only its historical significance, but also its architectural beauty. Sloup svatého Floriána is an example of Baroque art from the mid-18th century and stands as a testament to the city's resilience and renewability.
By inviting you to explore the Žatka again, I will bid you a friendly farewell. Keep touching memories of this column, which is an important part of urban identity and history. Whether you are curious about other sights or just want to walk through the beautiful streets of Žatce, this location will offer many opportunities to discover.
Tips for visitors
For the best experience we recommend a visit in spring or autumn months when the light for observing the details of sandstone material is finer. It may be hot in the square in the summer days, so it is advisable to have a drink with you.
The location is available by car and by public transport; Please check the current connection in the search engine.
If you are interested in photography, you will find the best light to capture statues on a six-sided plinth during the morning hours or shortly before sunset. From these times, you can best emphasize the surface of the stone.
It is ideal for families with children to walk around. After visiting the column you can visit a nearby church, loret or go to the city fortifications and the Priest Gate, which represents an interesting journey through history right in the heart of the city.
During the search, focus on the statues on the six-sided plinth. A detailed view of the faces of the saints allows you to better understand the historical importance of this monument.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
This is a structure in a public space that can usually be seen from outside free of charge. We have not verified that this particular one is freely accessible.
Where is the monument?
Location: Žatec. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 1000155357).
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Náměstí 5. května, Kněžská brána, kostel, loreta a městské opevnění.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Thematic cruise route in Žatci
1.Sloup svatého Floriána (memorial) - Type: Historical monument - Why is it worth visiting: This column is the most famous monument of the city Žatec and reminds of the history and culture of the village. Its significant location on the 5th of May makes it an ideal start to explore the city.
2nd Square 5th May - Type: Historical Square - Why it is worth a visit: The square is the heart of the city and offers a beautiful view of historical architecture. This is where the people of the past met and there are various cultural events going on here today.
3. Priest Gate - Type: Historical gate construction - Why is it worth visiting: The Priest Gate is one of the oldest preserved elements of the city fortification. It is the testimony of the period when Žatec was strongly fortified and strategically important.
4. Church - Type: Historical church - Why is it worth a visit: The church is an important architectural monument that attracts attention to its history and artistic elements. It is a place of peace and shelter for visitors and locals.
5. Loreto - Type: Religious monument - Why it is worth a visit: Loreta is a unique spiritual centre with rich history and beautiful architecture. It's a place where you can explore the faith and traditions of the Žatka people.
This route offers a view of the most significant historical and cultural elements of the village Žatec, allowing visitors to dive deeply into its rich heritage.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: During the spring season Sloup svatého Floriána is lit by sunlight, which amplifies the colours of stone reliefs and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Flowers around the monument are beginning to bloom, which gives the surrounding life and color. For the visit it is advisable to take light clothes with the possibility to add a layered shirt for a cooler morning or evening. The best time to explore can be noon, when the sun is high and illuminates the monument from the most favourable angles.
Summer: During the summer season Sloup svatého Floriána can become a place to relax on a warm sunny day. Long days allow for a long tour, but it is advisable to wear a protective hat and sunglasses against the sun. The natural greenery of the surrounding trees provide shade and a pleasant atmosphere. The dampening water from the ceiling may be more comfortable in the dark hours of the morning or afternoon.
Autumn: During autumn Sloup svatého Floriána becomes melancholic moods when leaves on the surrounding trees change colour and fall. This painting adds the history and depth of the memorial tour. The wet air of autumn requires clothes suitable for different temperatures, perhaps with an umbrella for backup. The best time to visit can be an early afternoon when the sun is still high and illuminates the monument before the beginning of cold evenings.
Winter: In winter, Sloup svatého Floriána may appear in an atmosphere covered with snow, which gives the surroundings a mysterious and calm mood. Freezing temperatures require clothing with insulating layers and protective tissues. A sunny morning can be an ideal time for a tour where light is brighter and a monument can dazzle its beauty in the glow. It is important to bring warm clothes to make the visit comfortable despite the cold air.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
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Sources and literature
Photos: SchiDD / CC0 — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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