The Legend of Charles IV

The history of the Chamois statue Karlovy Vary starts with a royal hunting trip. Emperor Charles IV was chasing a deer through the thick forest. The animal jumped off a high cliff to escape. His dogs fell into the hot water below and survived.

The Emperor realized the water had healing powers. He decided to build a town around these unique thermal springs. This story is central to the identity of the town. You can learn more on the Visit Czechia website.

The statue commemorates this miraculous discovery from the 14th century. It stands as a symbol of the town's legendary origins. Locals take great pride in this historical landmark. It remains a must-see destination for every new visitor.

• Emperor Charles IV founded the town.
• The legend involves a miraculous deer.
• Thermal springs were discovered during a hunt.

History of the Chamois Statue Karlovy Vary Artist

August Kiss was the artist behind the current metal sculpture. He cast the statue in zinc during the year 1851. This material was very popular for outdoor monuments at that time. It has resisted the harsh mountain weather for many decades.

The statue sits on a natural granite rock formation. This base provides a dramatic look against the green forest. Kiss wanted to capture the agility of the mountain animal. His work remains one of the most photographed spots today.

Before this metal version, a wooden statue stood in its place. The wood suffered from rot due to the damp forest air. City officials decided a more permanent monument was needed. The metal chamois has stood guard over the valley ever since.

The statue features several unique details:

• Cast in durable zinc metal.
• Created in a Berlin workshop.
• Mounted on solid granite rock.
• Lifelike mountain goat pose.

Reaching the Deer Leap Lookout

The Deer Leap Lookout Jelení skok is the home of this statue. It is located on a steep ridge above the Tepla River. The climb to the top is rewarding and very scenic. You will see the entire spa district from this height.

The lookout point is accessible by several different forest paths. Most people start their journey near the famous Grandhotel Pupp. The walk takes about twenty minutes for an average hiker. It is a great way to enjoy the fresh air.

There is also a small restaurant located near the lookout. You can stop for a traditional Czech snack or coffee. The view from the terrace is truly breathtaking in 2026. It is the perfect place to rest after your climb.

Why a Chamois and Not a Deer?

The choice of a chamois instead of a deer is interesting. A red deer is the star of the original legend. August Kiss believed a chamois fit the rocky terrain better. This artistic license has confused visitors for over a century.

A chamois is a goat-antelope native to the European mountains. It is known for its ability to stand on small ledges. This makes the statue look very realistic on the cliff. The pose suggests the animal is about to leap away.

Some locals still call it the "Deer Statue" despite its appearance. The name of the lookout also refers to the deer. This mix of names adds to the charm of the site. It is a quirky part of the local history.

Planning Your 2026 Visit

Planning your visit in 2026 requires just a little bit of preparation. The trails are open every day throughout the entire year. There is no entrance fee to see the statue itself. This makes it a great budget-friendly activity for families.

If you prefer not to walk, use the Diana funicular. It stops at a station called Jelení skok near the statue. You can find schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site. This saves you from the steepest part of the climb.

The best light for photos is during the early morning. The sun hits the statue and the valley perfectly then. You will also avoid the largest crowds of the day. Bring a bottle of local mineral water for the walk.

Keep these tips in mind for your trip:

• Wear sturdy shoes for the trails.
• Check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site.
• Carry a camera for the panoramic views.
• Visit during the spring for green scenery.

Nearby Historical Landmarks

The hiking trail to Deer Leap lookout point is very well maintained. You will find benches and shelters along the route for resting. The paths are made of packed earth and stone steps. They are safe for most fitness levels to navigate.

Along the way, you can see other monuments and towers. The Peter the Great lookout is just a short walk away. This area has been a popular hiking spot since the 1800s. It reflects the long history of wellness in the city.

The forest surrounding the statue is part of a protected park. It features ancient trees and many species of local birds. Walking here feels like stepping back into the nineteenth century. It is a peaceful escape from the busy colonnades.