Ústa pravdy: The Mouth of Truth

Ústa pravdy, or the Mouth of Truth, is a compelling and thought-provoking art installation located near Lipnice nad Sázavou in the Vysočina region of the Czech Republic. This impressive stone relief is part of the National Monument of Interception (Národní památník odposlechu), a collection of sculptures carved into the faces of flooded granite quarries. Created by sculptor Radomír Dvořák, Ústa pravdy was unveiled on September 7, 2006, as the second addition to the monument. The sculpture's name and theme are inspired by the famous Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) in the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church in Rome. However, the Czech version carries its own unique significance. The monument invites visitors to reflect on themes of truth, silence, and the importance of speaking out, or remaining silent, in the face of oppression. Ústa pravdy is carved into the rock face of a flooded quarry, adding to the dramatic effect. The sheer scale of the relief, standing at nearly 3 meters tall, is awe-inspiring. The monument is a testament to the skill and artistry of Dvořák and the students of the Lipnice nad Sázavou Stone Sculpture Center who assisted in its creation. To fully experience the National Monument of Interception, visitors should also explore the other sculptures: Bretschneider's Ear (Bretschneiderovo ucho) and Golden Eyes (Zlaté oči). Each sculpture offers a unique perspective on the themes of surveillance and the importance of freedom of speech. The trail connecting the sculptures begins at the U České koruny inn, where writer Jaroslav Hašek penned his famous novel, *The Good Soldier Švejk*. Exploring the monument requires a walk of approximately 4 km and at least two hours.