Brückenfigur des Heiligen Johann Nepomuk, Bridge statue in Kemnath, Germany
The Bridge Figure of Saint John of Nepomuk is a stone sculpture on a pedestal located near a bridge crossing that represents the patron saint of waterways. It belongs to a group of religious monuments commonly found at such crossing points throughout Bavaria.
This figure dates from the 18th century, when statues of Saint John of Nepomuk spread across Central Europe following his canonization in 1729. Placing such monuments at bridge sites became a widespread practice to protect travelers during their journeys.
The figure shows Saint John of Nepomuk dressed in priestly robes with five stars circling his head, symbolizing his vow of silence. This representation follows the traditional way locals recognize this saint across the region.
The monument stands at an easily accessible point near the bridge and can be explored on foot without difficulty. Visitors can view the work from different angles and take time to examine its details at their own pace.
Saint John of Nepomuk became the patron saint of bridges because legend says he was thrown into water for refusing to speak. His statues at river crossings served people for centuries as a symbol of hope for safe passage.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
