Socha svatého Jana Nepomuckého (Nový Bydžov, park) Statue column

Welcome to New Byjo. Right now you're standing in the silence of the park, where one of the beautiful examples of ancient art welcomes you. The statue of St. John Nepomuk stands before you, which, with its presence, gives this place depth and peace. It's a life-size figure carved out of sandstone that carries the spirit of a time when faith and art intertwined in every detail. Stop for a moment, take a breath and let your eyes pass through the contours of this character who has long been guarding his space here.

When we look at the time when this work was created, we are going to go deep into the past, namely the year seven hundred forty-nine. At that time, the Baroque era ruled, which loved dynamics, emotions and rich decorating. It is from this period that this statue comes from. Although today we do not know who was the specific author, who held the chisel in his hand and who of the hard stone eviscerated these fine shapes, the work speaks for itself with its quality. It's evidence of craftsmanship, which was very high in the 18th century.

Now I ask you to pay full attention to the details you see right in front of you. Look at the holy garment. It is depicted in Canovnik's garment, which attaches to his character with typical baroque correctness. Notice his face and expression radiating inner peace. Above the holy head you will see a hallow in which the five stars shine. These stars are not only an ornament, but they carry a deep symbolic meaning associated with the legend of this holy. In his hand is the palace, a priesthood symbol, which complements his image as a man of faith and devotion.

When your attention drops lower, notice what the Holy One stands for. The figure doesn't count on the ground, but it seems to be floating on the clouds. Among these clouds you can see the little heads of putti, which are the little angels who often accompany celestial figures in Baroque art and give the scene lightness and otherworldly character. The whole set then rests on a decorated three-piece base. If you approach it and take a close look, you'll see the inscription on July 15th, seven hundred forty-nine. It's the exact moment that tells us when this statue was completed and handed over to the world.

It's fascinating to think that this place in the park is not home to the statue from the beginning. History teaches us that monuments often move along with the changing face of the city. Originally, this statue stood in Klicper Street, where it probably served as a spiritual beacon for people passing through the city centre. However, in the year one thousand and nine hundred eleven it was decided that Saint John Nepomuk would be brought here, to this park at the Church of the Holy Trinity. This change of location gave him an environment more consistent with his confession of peace and contemplation.

Here we come to one interesting thing that may not be visible at first sight, but it is very important. This statue is not just an ordinary stone painting, but is officially protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. This means that the state recognises its extraordinary value for our history and culture. It's a piece of history that has survived centuries, changes in regimes, and adverse weather effects, so it can stand before you today. But the mystery remains the identity of the creator. It is fascinating that such an important work that calls us today remains anonymous. Who was that? Was he a local master, or perhaps one of the great cities that was invited to New Bydjevo just for this project? The answer remains hidden in the archives of time.

Feel the atmosphere of this place now. The park around you, the proximity of the church and this sandstone figure form a whole that encourages us to stop. In today's rush world, such a moment of silence and observation of detail is rare. Look again at the five stars and the fine petals of the clouds under the feet of the saint. It was all carved out of one piece of stone, which in the year seven hundred forty-nine looked quite different than today, but its essence remained the same.

I hope you're interested in this short trip to history with the character of St. John Nepomuk. This statue is just one of the many pieces that compose the Mosaic of New Bydžov. It's a place where every rock can tell a story if we're just paying attention to its silent voice. Now you can quietly continue to explore the surroundings, perceive the beauty of the park and perhaps seek further clues of the past that await you in this city.

Thank you for your time together at this beautiful monument. I wish you a pleasant continuation of your journey and many other discoveries in our city. Goodbye.