Dům U sloupu Panny Marie, building in Prague
Dům U sloupu Panny Marie is a three-story house in Prague's Malá Strana built on an irregular trapezoidal lot. Its late classical facade features horizontal rustication above the ground floor, decorated window frames, and a triangular pediment with a balcony overlooking the river and Charles Bridge.
Construction began in the second half of the 16th century, but the building suffered serious damage during the Thirty Years' War in 1648. Repairs and expansions followed in the 18th century, while the 19th century brought additional modifications, and a major restoration took place after the 2002 floods.
The house is named after a pillar or statue dedicated to the Virgin Mary, reflecting the religious customs of those who built and inhabited it. Today, visitors notice the image of Mary displayed above the entrance, which remains a focal point of spiritual significance for the neighborhood.
The house is easily located near the main streets of Malá Strana and is visible from Charles Bridge. It serves as a good starting point for exploring the historic neighborhood, which is best visited during early morning or late evening hours to experience the quieter rhythm of the area.
The image of Mary above the entrance is decorated with small wooden rollers, around which a legend tells of a washerwoman whose hand was caught in them until she was freed by divine intervention. Three small lamps on the balcony commemorate a former resident named Josef Rousek who risked his life rescuing drowning people from the river.
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