Maria column, Baroque plague column in Vyškov, Czech Republic

The Maria Column stands in the main square of Vyškov and features ornate carvings, religious figures, and finely worked details in baroque style. The structure was built from stone and displays the characteristic features of baroque architecture.

The column was erected in 1719, after a plague epidemic that afflicted Vyškov from the 1680s into the second decade of the 18th century, lasting almost fifty years. So many died that they were not recorded in the parish registers. It is the work of the Brno sculptor Jan Christian Pröbstl.

The column displays religious symbols and artistic craftsmanship that reflect the strong Catholic presence in Moravian public spaces during the 18th century. Visitors can see representations of saints and religious figures that expressed the community's beliefs.

The column stands in the open centre of Masaryk Square, so it can be walked around and viewed from every side. Two further statues flank it on the square: St. Florian from 1754 and St. John of Nepomuk from 1771. The square is in the town centre of Vyškov, in the South Moravian Region.

The sculptures on the column show specific plague saints and the Virgin Mary and reflect the artistic traditions of the region. This selection of depicted saints held special meaning for the community of that time.