Mariánský sloup, Prague Travel Guide

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A historical monument in Prague's Old Town Square, the Mariánský sloup tells a story of resilience, religion, and cultural identity.

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Mariánský sloup

The Mariánský sloup (Marian Column) is a religious monument in Prague's Old Town Square, featuring a column topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary. Originally erected in 1650 to celebrate the city's defense during the Thirty Years' War, it was torn down in 1918 and reconstructed in 2020. It stands as a testament to Prague's resilience and rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Mariánský sloup

Staroměstské nám. 20, Old Town, 110 00, CZ
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mariánský sloup.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Explore nearby attractions like the Astronomical Clock and Týn Church for a fuller experience of Old Town.
Take a guided tour to learn about the historical significance of the Mariánský sloup and its surroundings.

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Getting There

Walking

The Mariánský sloup is located in the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí). From anywhere in the square, you can easily walk to the column, which is situated near the center. Look for the tall column topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary.
Public Transport

If arriving by public transport from outside the immediate vicinity, take the Metro Line A to Staroměstská station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to Old Town Square. Alternatively, tram lines 2, 13, 14, 17, 18, and 93 stop at Staroměstské náměstí. A single public transport ticket for a short trip (30 minutes) costs 30 CZK.

Discover more about Mariánský sloup

The Mariánský sloup, or Marian Column, is a prominent monument located in Prague's Old Town Square. The original column was erected in 1650, following the end of the Thirty Years' War, to give thanks for the successful defense of Prague against the Swedish army. The column features a statue of the Virgin Mary at its apex and sculptures of angels at its base.The monument quickly became a symbol of the Habsburg Empire and Catholicism, leading to its destruction in 1918, coinciding with the fall of Austria-Hungary. In the aftermath of the monarchy's collapse, a crowd tore down the column, viewing it as a symbol of Habsburg domination.After years of debate, the column was reconstructed and re-erected in 2020. The re-erection was completed on August 15, 2020, and the column became city property. Today, the Mariánský sloup stands as a reminder of the city's history and the many layers of cultural and religious significance embedded within it. It also serves as a marker for the Prague Meridian, which was formerly used to measure time.