Statue of John of Nepomuk in Bělá pod Bezdězem

This limestone work on Masarykovo Square depicts Saint John of Nepomuk in traditional clerical dress, positioned centrally in the town's main square near the Church of Holy Cross. The sculpture displays characteristic Baroque craftsmanship with careful attention to religious details and symbolic elements.

Created in 1672, this monument ranks among the earliest outdoor sculptures dedicated to John of Nepomuk, predating the famous Charles Bridge statue in Prague. Its continuous presence at this location makes it an important record of Baroque devotion in Central Bohemia.

John of Nepomuk holds deep meaning in Czech tradition as a protector of bridges and waters, and this statue embodies the local reverence for this saint. The figure with its distinctive halo and cross is a focal point where townspeople and visitors pause when crossing the square.

The sculpture sits on the central Masarykovo Square and is easily reached as it stands directly beside the Church of Holy Cross. Visitors can view it at any time since it occupies an openly accessible public space in the town center.

The monument still stands at its original location from the 17th century, making it a rare example since many Baroque memorials in Central Bohemia have been moved or removed over time. This continuity of placement preserves the historical arrangement of the square itself.