Statue of John of Nepomuk in Bouzov Castle, Religious statue at Bouzov Castle, Czech Republic

A bronze statue of John of Nepomuk stands near the castle entrance, showing a priest holding a crucifix with five stars around his head. The figure bears symbols that mark the reasons for his veneration and suffering.

The sandstone statue was carved in 1720 by an unknown sculptor for the castle bridge, then moved to the castle grounds. It shows John of Nepomuk, vicar general of Prague, who was thrown into the Vltava in 1393 on Wenceslaus IV's orders after refusing to break the seal of confession. Canonised in 1729, he became a patron saint of the Czech lands.

The statue stands on the castle forecourt, where the saint's feast on 16 May is still marked in Czech villages with processions and river ceremonies. John is the patron of bridges and of confessional secrecy, which is why his figures appear near water and castle gates. Visitors often touch the base for luck.

You can see the statue during castle tours, which typically run from spring through fall. Ask about guided explanations when you arrive, as available languages vary by season.

The base features carved symbols including a palm branch, each marking important aspects of his story. These details reward closer attention from visitors interested in what the emblems represent.