Jan Hus Memorial
Statue in Prague
The Jan Hus Memorial, located in Prague’s Old Town Square, is a striking tribute to the Czech religious reformer and martyr, Jan Hus. Designed by sculptor Ladislav Šaloun, the monument was unveiled in 1915 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Hus’s death. The memorial is a large bronze and stone structure that depicts Jan Hus standing tall, surrounded by victorious Hussite warriors and Protestants who were exiled after the Battle of White Mountain during the Thirty Years’ War. A young mother with a child symbolizes the rebirth of the Czech nation, adding layers of meaning to the monument.
Jan Hus was a key figure in Czech history, advocating for religious reform and challenging the corruption within the Catholic Church. His teachings inspired the Hussite movement, one of the earliest Protestant reformist movements. Hus was condemned as a heretic and burned at the stake in 1415, an event that sparked the Hussite Wars. The memorial reflects his enduring legacy and the resilience of his followers.
The Jan Hus Memorial also carries symbolic significance beyond its historical context. During the 19th-century Czech National Revival, Hus became a symbol of resistance against oppressive regimes, including the Habsburg monarchy. The monument’s unveiling during World War I further emphasized its role as a beacon of Czech identity and independence. Even during Communist rule, sitting at the feet of the memorial became a quiet act of defiance.
Today, the Jan Hus Memorial stands as a powerful reminder of Prague’s rich history and the enduring spirit of its people. Its location in the heart of Old Town Square makes it a focal point for visitors exploring the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.
The Jan Hus Memorial appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Prague!
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Visiting Jan Hus Memorial
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