Overview of the Mill Colonnade Architecture

The Mill Colonnade is the largest colonnade in the city. Architect Josef Zítek designed this masterpiece in the late 19th century. It features 124 Corinthian columns that create a rhythmic stone corridor. You can learn more about the Mill Colonnade architecture history to see how it evolved. The structure was originally intended to be a two-story building. However, budget cuts led to the single-story roof terrace we see today.

This terrace serves as a pedestal for the famous statues. The building houses five major mineral springs used for drinking cures. It is a central part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Karlovy Vary. Walking through the colonnade feels like stepping back into the golden age of European spas. The roofline is the most decorative element of the exterior. It provides a perfect contrast to the heavy stone pillars below.

The List of Allegorical Statues on Mill Colonnade Roof

There are exactly twelve statues placed along the balustrade. Each figure is an allegory for one month of the calendar year. They are crafted from fine sandstone and show intricate classical details. Below is the complete list of these figures and how to enjoy them.

• Quick Pick (Best for History): The entire set of 12 months.
• Quick Pick (Best Free Activity): Viewing the statues from the riverside.
• Quick Pick (Best for Families): Identifying the months based on the statues' tools.

1. Name: January Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: It marks the start of the year with classical winter symbolism. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Northern end of the roof. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the heavy drapery representing cold weather.
2. Name: February Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Represents the transition from winter. Best for: Photographers. Where: Roof terrace balustrade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Use a zoom lens for better details.
3. Name: March Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Symbolizes the awakening of nature. Best for: Spring visitors. Where: Above the main walkway. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Notice the subtle changes in the figure's posture.
4. Name: April Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: A beautiful representation of changing weather. Best for: History buffs. Where: Central section of the roof. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This statue is best lit in the late morning.
5. Name: May Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Represents blooming and youth. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Near the center of the colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for floral motifs in the carving.
6. Name: June Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Marks the beginning of summer. Best for: Architecture students. Where: Roof balustrade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Compare the light clothing to the January statue.
7. Name: July Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Symbolizes the height of summer heat. Best for: General tourists. Where: Southern half of the roof. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Best viewed from across the Teplá River.
8. Name: August Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Represents the harvest season. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Above the mineral springs. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for symbols of grain or fruit.
9. Name: September Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: A classic depiction of early autumn. Best for: Sketching. Where: Roof terrace. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The shadows here are very dramatic in the afternoon.
10. Name: October Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Represents the wine harvest. Best for: Wine enthusiasts. Where: Southern end of the roof. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Check for grapevine details in the sculpture.
11. Name: November Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Symbolizes the end of the harvest. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Near the end of the balustrade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The statue has a more somber expression.
12. Name: December Type: Allegorical Statue Why go: Completes the cycle of the year. Best for: Completing the set. Where: Far southern edge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Pair this with a visit to the nearby Market Colonnade.

Who Created the Mill Colonnade Statues?

Two talented sculptors created these twelve masterpieces. Alfred Schreiber and Karl Wilfert worked on the project in the 1880s. They followed the Neo-Renaissance style to match Zítek's design. You can find more about who designed the Mill Colonnade and its art. The statues were carved from sandstone, a common material in Bohemia. This stone allows for fine detail but requires regular cleaning.

The sculptors focused on classical proportions and clear symbolism. Each month is easily identifiable by its attributes. For example, the winter months wear heavier robes. The summer months often carry tools related to agriculture. These statues were part of a larger plan to beautify the city. They helped Karlovy Vary compete with other grand European spa towns. Today, they remain some of the most photographed art pieces in the region.

How to See the Statues in Karlovy Vary

The Mill Colonnade is located in the heart of the pedestrian zone. You can easily reach it on a self-guided Karlovy Vary walking route. The best view of the statues is from the opposite bank of the river. This perspective allows you to see all twelve figures in a row. Early morning light is perfect for seeing the textures of the sandstone. Most visitors combine this with a historic walk in Karlovy Vary to see other colonnades.

The site is open 24 hours a day and is free to visit. You do not need a ticket to walk under the colonnade or view the roof. For those arriving by train, check the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for schedules. Local buses also stop near the Grandhotel Pupp, which is a short walk away. Wear comfortable shoes as the spa zone is entirely car-free. Visiting in 2026 ensures you see the statues after recent restoration efforts.