Understanding the history of plague column Svornosti Square

The Marian Plague Column is a central feature of Svornosti Square. It was built between 1714 and 1716. The monument expresses gratitude for the end of a deadly plague. Sculptor Matěj Václav Jäckel designed the beautiful Baroque figures. It stands as a testament to the town's faith and history.

The column features the Virgin Mary at the very top. Eight patron saints stand around the base of the structure. These include Saint Roch, Saint Sebastian, and Saint Vitus. These saints are traditional protectors against infectious diseases. The artistry reflects the high Baroque style of the early 18th century.

This site is a key part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It reminds visitors of the town's resilience during hard times. You can see the column from almost any spot in the square. It remains one of the most photographed spots in the city. Many people stop here to admire the intricate stone carvings.

Quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: Marian Plague Column
• Best for families: Museum of Torture
• Best rainy-day: Egon Schiele Art Centrum
• Best free sight: Renaissance Stone Fountain

10 Best Sights on an Old Town Square walking loop

The square is the heart of the what to see in the historic center list. It is surrounded by colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings. You can easily walk between these sites in a single afternoon. Each stop offers a unique look at local culture. Here are the top ten highlights for your itinerary.

1. Name: Marian Plague Column Type: sight Why go: To see the focal point of the square and learn local history. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Center of Svornosti Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the middle of the main square. Tip: Look for the statue of St. Vitus, the town's patron saint.
2. Name: Old Town Hall (Radnice) Type: sight Why go: Admire the Renaissance facade and historic coats of arms. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: North side of Svornosti Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Located directly on the square. Tip: The building dates back to the late 16th century.
3. Name: Renaissance Stone Fountain Type: sight Why go: This 1843 fountain replaced an older structure and served the town's water needs. Best for: A quick photo stop. Where: Right next to the Plague Column. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the center of the square. Tip: It is a great spot to sit and people-watch.
4. Name: Museum of Torture Type: indoor Why go: Explore the dark history of medieval justice in authentic underground cellars. Best for: Those interested in macabre history. Where: In the basement of the Town Hall. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually around 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Enter through the Town Hall building. Tip: It can be a bit scary for very young children.
5. Name: Široká Street Type: neighborhood Why go: This wide street is filled with artisan shops and galleries. Best for: Shopping and local crafts. Where: Just off the main square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Walk west from the square. Tip: Look for handmade jewelry and traditional Czech gingerbread.
6. Name: St. Vitus Church Type: sight Why go: Visit the most important Gothic church in the city. Best for: Spiritual reflection and Gothic architecture. Where: Kostelní street, near the square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Follow the signs from the square's east corner. Tip: Check for evening classical music concerts.
7. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: See world-class modern art in a historic former brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká 71. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Check the official site for current rates. Getting there: A short walk from the square. Tip: The museum cafe is excellent for a coffee break.
8. Name: Horní Street Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: Get the perfect panoramic shot of the castle and the river. Best for: Photography. Where: Near the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the square toward the museum. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting.
9. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: experience Why go: See the town from a completely different perspective on the water. Best for: Active travelers and groups. Where: Various launch points near the center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Varies by boat type; expect 500-800 CZK. Getting there: Many rental shops are near the bridges. Tip: Wear shoes that can get wet.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: Visit one of the most beautiful white castles in Europe. Best for: Fairy-tale scenery. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou (30km away). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Bus fare + castle tour fee (approx 300 CZK). Getting there: Take a local bus or organized shuttle. Tip: Book your tour tickets in advance during summer.

Planning your visit to Svornosti Square in 2026

When planning your trip, consider using walking directions to Svornosti Square. The town center is entirely pedestrian. Most visitors arrive by bus or train and walk into the Old Town. Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestones are very uneven.

The square is busiest between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Day trippers from Prague often fill the area during these hours. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning. You can also explore the Latrán district highlights after the square. This area offers more historic buildings and charming shops.

For the most updated event info, visit the Official Tourism portal. They list seasonal festivals and market dates. In 2026, expect several historical celebrations in the square. Many local restaurants offer traditional South Bohemian dishes nearby. Always carry a small amount of local currency for small purchases.