socha svatého Václava v Chlumci nad Cidlinou Statue

Welcome to Chlumps over Cidlina. Right now, you're standing in front of one of the silent but prominent witnesses of local history. In front of you is a sandstone statue of St. Wenceslas, which guards the road to the bridge over the Cidlin River. It is the first thing to welcome you here, and her presence here is very peaceful and noble. Stop for a moment, take a breath and let your eyes discover the details of this stone painting that has been standing here for more than two years.

If you look at this memory, you're going back in time to eighteen zero seven. It was this year that the statue was created. Although today we do not know exactly who was her author, it is clear that he was the master of his craft. At that time, it was customary to place the shapes of saints on roads, bridges or squares to serve as a spiritual support for the travellers and protectors of the local population. Saint Wenceslas, as our main protector, was a natural choice. It stands here as a symbol of stability and faith, carved from sandstone, which, with the advancing time, gained its characteristic patina.

Now let's take a closer look together at what you see right in front of you. Attention to the figure of St. Wenceslas. It is depicted in the traditional concept that makes it a respected ruler and warrior. He wears a crown on his head that marks his prince's dignity. In his left hand, he holds the battalion, the symbol of victory and the leadership of the nation, while with his right hand he rests on the shield. If you look closely at this shield, you'll see an eagle on it. It's a detail that connects this statue to our national symbols and gives it a deeper meaning.

But the statue is not just about the character of the prince. Let us now move the attention below to the base on which St. Wenceslas stands. The whole object rests on a decorated pillar, which itself is a small work of art. Notice the reliefs, that is, these rising images in the stone that decorate the sides of the pillar. One of them depicts Saint Florian, who is traditionally perceived as a protector of fires. Next to it you will find a picture of the Virgin Mary with little Jesus in your arms, which brings to the whole work an element of maternal care and hope. And remember to also seek out St. Nicholas, who completes this group of saints. Note also other small elements such as the IHS inscription, which is an old symbol for the name of Jesus, or details of spikes that complement the overall appearance of the monument.

When you look at the calm face of St. Wenceslas in this way, you may think that this statue has stood here in complete peace since its inception. But the truth is much more dramatic. The history of this monument is accompanied by an incredible story that resembles almost a miracle. Imagine the year eighteen zero forty-five. At that time, there was huge water. The Cidlina River spilled so much that its power was unstoppable. It was this great water that was so strong that it simply took the sandstone statue from its original place.

Imagine the confusion and sadness of the local people who suddenly found out their protector had disappeared. But the statue has not disappeared into oblivion or in the depths of the river forever. She was found at Lucice village, where the stream of water washed away. It is fascinating to think how such a heavy stone object could have been moved by the water element to a place this far away, while remaining in such a state that it could be returned. This story gives the statue a certain myth and reminds us how powerful nature is and how important it is to protect what's left of history.

For this reason, and also because of its artistic value, in the year one thousand nine hundred ninety-four statues were officially declared a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. This means that it is no longer just a local ornament at the bridge, but it is part of a national list of values that we must preserve for future generations. It is a recognition of its importance, its survival of large waters and its impact on the shape of this place.

Now, if you look at St. Wenceslas again, you see something more than just a piece of sandstone. You see a survivor who got out of the rough embrace of the river and who, again, in full dignity, is watching over Cidlina. He is a silent witness to the transformed world, which encourages us to stop and think about what is permanent and fleeting.

Imagine how many people around this statue went through those more than two walls. How many passengers sought protection for their journey at St. Wenceslas, how many locals sought comfort in difficult times. This statue is a bridge not only in literal sense, because it stands at the bridge, but it is a bridge between us and our ancestors.

Now that you've met the story and details of this sandstone beauty, I suggest you stay in its immediate surroundings for a while. Try to notice how light is reflected from sandstone in different hours of the day and how the statue changes with the season. Feel the atmosphere of this place where the calm of the river connects to the history of the city.

As soon as you're ready, you can continue to explore further corners of Chlumce over Cidlina. The city has prepared many other secrets and beautiful places for you to discover. I hope that meeting with St. Wenceslas has brought you a sense of peace and inspiration.

Thank you for your attention and I wish you a pleasant continuation of the journey towards other historical clues. Goodbye.