Understanding the History of the Plague Column in Plzeň

The history of the Plague Column in Plzeň began in 1681. A deadly plague struck the city one year earlier. Many citizens lost their lives during this tragic outbreak. The local people wanted to thank the Virgin Mary for ending the sickness. They commissioned the sculptor Christian Widmann to create a grand monument. He was a talented artist from the nearby town of Prague.

Widmann designed the column in the popular Baroque style. This style was famous for its dramatic and emotional details. The column features a stunning golden statue of the Madonna on top. This figure is a replica of the famous Pilsen Madonna. The original statue sits inside the nearby cathedral. Below her, you can see several statues of patron saints. These saints were believed to protect the city from future diseases.

The column is made of local sandstone and stands quite high. It is a central part of the Republic Square Plzeň architecture guide for many tourists. For centuries, it has been a place for prayer and reflection. It survived many wars and changes in the city. Today, it remains a symbol of hope for the local community. It is a must-see for anyone interested in European history.

10 Must-See Sights in Plzeň for History Lovers

Exploring the city center is the best way to see these landmarks. Most sights are within walking distance of each other. Here are the top ten items to include on your next visit to Plzeň.

• Quick Pick: Best for History - The Plague Column
• Quick Pick: Best for Views - St. Bartholomew’s Tower
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Techmania Science Center
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Republic Square Walk

1. Name: The Plague Column (Marian Column) Type: Sight Why go: It is the best place to learn the history of the Plague Column in Plzeň. Best for: History buffs. Where: Northern side of Republic Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of Republic Square. Tip: Look closely at the statues of St. Roch and St. Sebastian at the base.
2. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: It has the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK for the tower. Getting there: It is located right next to the Plague Column. Tip: Climb the tower for the best city photos.
3. Name: The Renaissance Town Hall Type: Architecture Why go: It features a beautiful sgraffito facade from the 16th century. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Republic Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Located on the north side of the square. Tip: Check the detailed drawings on the walls.
4. Name: The Golden Fountains Type: Experience Why go: These modern fountains contrast perfectly with the old architecture. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Three corners of Republic Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk around the square's perimeter. Tip: The fountains represent the angel, the greyhound, and the camel from the city coat of arms.
5. Name: The Puppet Museum Type: Museum Why go: Plzeň has a long tradition of puppetry and theater. Best for: Families and children. Where: Republic Square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 120 CZK. Getting there: Located in a historic house on the square. Tip: Try operating the puppets in the interactive section.
6. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: History Why go: It honors the liberation of the city by the US Army in 1945. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Look for the original equipment used by soldiers.
7. Name: The Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 120 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Check the official Visit Plzeň site for concert schedules inside.
8. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Day trip Why go: This is the birthplace of the world's first golden lager. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: U Prazdroje. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Approx. 350 CZK. Getting there: A 15-minute walk or short tram ride from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance online.
9. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Experience Why go: It offers interactive exhibits in an old industrial hall. Best for: Science fans and kids. Where: U Planetária. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Approx. 280 CZK. Getting there: Take a bus or trolleybus from the center. Tip: Don't miss the 3D planetarium show.
10. Name: The Historical Underground Type: Experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of corridors dating back to the 14th century. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Veleslavínova Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 190 CZK. Getting there: Entrance is near the Brewery Museum. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground.

Planning Your Visit to Central Plzeň

The best way to see everything is with a Plzeň self-guided walking tour itinerary. This allows you to move at your own pace. Most people spend at least two days in the city. This gives you enough time for the brewery and the historic center. The city is very safe and easy to navigate.

Public transport in Plzeň is excellent. You can use trams and buses to reach the outer districts. For the main square, walking is the best option. Many signs are in both Czech and English. You can find more information on the City of Plzeň official website. Always carry some local currency for smaller shops.