Marian plague column in Hradčany, Baroque memorial column in Hradčany, Czech Republic.
The Marian plague column is a Baroque memorial obelisk standing in Hradčany, adorned with stone carvings and religious imagery throughout its structure. Its tall shaft supports an ornate crown at the top, making it a prominent focal point in the historic district.
Built in 1728, the column commemorates the end of a severe plague that devastated Prague in earlier decades. Its construction followed a widespread European tradition of erecting such memorials to give thanks for survival and protection.
The column reflects the deep devotion to Mary that shaped 18th-century Prague, visible in its carved reliefs and inscriptions that remain today. Visitors walking by can sense this religious fervor in every detail of the stonework.
The column sits centrally on a plaza in Hradčany and is easy to access by following the main streets through the historic area. Plenty of space surrounds the monument, allowing views from different angles and nearby are numerous other historical sites worth exploring.
The column casts a shadow that acts as a sundial, marking the passage of time as visitors stand before it. This feature, known as the Prague Meridian, blends the religious monument with scientific observation.
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