Baroque Bridge of Žďár nad Sázavou

Spanning the Stržský brook, the Baroque Bridge of Žďár nad Sázavou is a testament to the region's historical and artistic connections. The bridge's origins trace back to the Cistercian Order, who arrived in the area in 1252. The bridge was constructed in 1751 during the time of Abbot Bernard Hennet, replacing an earlier wooden structure. Between 1761 and 1766, the bridge was decorated with eight statues of saints. These statues, standing on pedestals with chronograms, were inspired by those on the Charles Bridge in Prague. The statues represent saints significant to both Czech and Christian history, including St. Cyril and St. Methodius, St. Adalbert, St. John of Nepomuk, the Apostle St. Paul, St. Nicholas, St. Benedict, and St. Bernard of Clairvaux. In 2009, the original statues were removed for restoration and replaced with copies; the originals are intended for display in the Lower Cemetery. The bridge has undergone several structural modifications throughout its history, including the reinforcement of its arches with concrete panels. The most recent reconstruction took place in 2009. The bridge is near the Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.