Fountain and Plague Column

Plague Column & Fountain – Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Overview

At the heart of Český Krumlov’s Old Town Square (Náměstí Svornosti) stands the striking Plague Column and Fountain, two landmarks that symbolize both the resilience and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage town. Built in the early 18th century, the Baroque plague column was erected in gratitude for the town’s survival of a devastating epidemic. Surrounding it is a stone fountain, which once served as a vital source of water for the townspeople. Today, the column and fountain remain central meeting points in the square, framed by pastel-colored Renaissance and Baroque buildings. They offer visitors not only historical significance but also one of the most photogenic scenes in Český Krumlov.

Why Visit

• Admire one of Český Krumlov’s most important Baroque monuments
• Learn the history of the plague and its impact on Bohemian towns
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Old Town Square with the column as its centerpiece
• Capture some of the best photos of Český Krumlov’s historic architecture
• Experience a symbol of the town’s resilience and gratitude from centuries past

Highlights

• Plague Column: A towering Baroque monument topped with the Virgin Mary, built in 1716
• Eight Patron Saints: Statues of saints believed to protect against plague, including St. Roch and St. Sebastian
• Fountain Basin: Once the town’s main water source, now a decorative landmark
• Square Setting: Surrounded by historic houses, cafés, and the old town hall
• Nighttime Illumination: The column and fountain glow beautifully under evening lights

History & Cultural Significance

The Plague Column was commissioned in 1716 after a severe plague epidemic struck the Bohemian region. Built in the Baroque style, it was intended as both a religious offering of thanks and a public reminder of faith and resilience. The column is crowned by a statue of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing protection, while eight surrounding saints—including St. Roch, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Sebastian—were chosen for their associations with healing and plague protection. The adjacent fountain predates the column and was originally the town’s main water supply. Together, they represent both the spiritual and practical lifelines of Český Krumlov’s community during times of hardship.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Visiting the Plague Column and Fountain is completely free, as they are public monuments in the Old Town Square. Many guided walking tours of Český Krumlov include the square as a key stop, with guides explaining the column’s religious symbolism and historical context. The square’s cafés and restaurants surrounding the fountain offer meals and drinks ranging from 200–400 CZK (€8–€16) per person, making it a popular spot to relax and enjoy the view of the monuments.

Best Time to Visit

The square is lively throughout the day, but mornings offer the best chance to enjoy the column and fountain without crowds. Afternoons are busiest, as day-trippers from Prague and other cities arrive. For a magical experience, visit in the evening when the monuments are illuminated, and the square takes on a more romantic ambiance. Each season offers its own charm: spring and summer bring outdoor café culture, autumn adds colorful foliage, and winter transforms the square into a festive Christmas market setting with the column and fountain at its center.

Nearby Experiences

The Plague Column and Fountain are located in Náměstí Svornosti, the heart of Český Krumlov’s Old Town. Just steps away are the Town Hall, the Regional Museum, and streets leading to the Church of St. Vitus. The square is also an excellent starting point for exploring riverside cafés, artisan shops, and viewpoints of the castle above. Seasonal events like the Five-Petalled Rose Festival and Christmas markets take place here, bringing the monuments into the center of local celebrations.

Travel Tips

• Visit early morning for crowd-free photos of the column and fountain
• Join a guided tour for deeper insight into the plague’s impact on Bohemian history
• Stay overnight in Český Krumlov to enjoy the square after day-trippers leave
• Bring cash if you plan to dine in the square—some smaller cafés may not accept cards
• Visit during festivals for a lively atmosphere and unique cultural events centered around the square

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• The column was financed by the town’s wealthy citizens as a religious offering of gratitude
• Each saint on the column was chosen for their protective role against plagues
• The fountain once supplied drinking water for the entire town before modern plumbing
• Today, the Plague Column is one of the most photographed landmarks in Český Krumlov