History of the Plague Column and Fountains

The Plague Column, or Marian Column, dates back to 1681. Locals built it to thank the Virgin Mary. They were grateful for the end of a plague epidemic. The column features a beautiful statue of the Pilsen Madonna. It is a symbol of hope and faith for the city. This monument is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It stands as a silent witness to centuries of history.

In contrast, the three modern fountains were added in 2010. They represent symbols from the city's coat of arms. These include an angel, a greyhound, and a camel. The fountains are covered in real gold leaf. They provide a striking contrast to the old buildings. Many people gather here to enjoy the water displays. The Plzeň Region is proud of this blend of old and new.

10 Iconic Republic Square Plzeň Landmarks

Republic Square is packed with history. You should spend at least half a day here. Here are the top spots you cannot miss. Use this list to plan your walking route. Most of these sites are very close to each other.

• Best overall: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral
• Best for families: Puppet Museum
• Best rainy-day: Historical Underground
• Best free sight: The Gold Fountains

1. Name: The Plague Column Type: Sight Why go: It is a historic Baroque monument from 1681. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: North corner of Republic Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the square center. Tip: Look closely at the detailed statues surrounding the base.
2. Name: The Three Gold Fountains Type: Sight Why go: Modern gold-plated structures representing city symbols. Best for: Modern art lovers. Where: Three different corners of Republic Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from anywhere on the square. Tip: The fountains look amazing when lit up at night.
3. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: It has the tallest church tower in the country. Best for: Views and Gothic architecture. Where: Center of Republic Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the cathedral tower climb. Getting there: It is the largest building on the square. Tip: Climb the 301 steps for the best city view.
4. Name: Renaissance Town Hall Type: Sight Why go: A stunning 16th-century building with sgraffito decorations. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: North side of Republic Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Located next to the Plague Column. Tip: Check the scale model of the city center inside the lobby. Learn more about the Renaissance Town Hall on Republic Square before you go.
5. Name: Puppet Museum Type: Experience Why go: Plzeň has a very long tradition of puppetry. Best for: Families with children. Where: East side of Republic Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the Cathedral. Tip: Try operating the puppets in the interactive section.
6. Name: Brewery Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn about the history of brewing in a medieval house. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: Veleslavínova Street, just off the square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 2-minute walk from the square. Tip: Your ticket often includes a beer voucher for adults.
7. Name: Historical Underground Type: Experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval corridors and cellars. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Entrance is at the Brewery Museum. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow signs from the square. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
8. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků, near the square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the Town Hall. Tip: Check the acoustic concerts often held here.
9. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum Why go: Dedicated to the liberation of the city in 1945. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Pobřežní Street, near the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the square. Tip: Look for the original items donated by US veterans.
10. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Day trip Why go: The birthplace of the world-famous pilsner beer. Best for: Everyone over 18. Where: U Prazdroje street. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Higher. Getting there: 15-minute walk or short tram ride. Tip: Book your Pilsner Urquell brewery tour in advance online. Visit the official brewery site for tickets.

Planning Your Visit to Republic Square

Republic Square is very easy to navigate. Most people arrive by tram or on foot. The square is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. Many cafes offer outdoor seating during the summer months. It is a great place to people-watch.

The square is busiest during the Christmas and Easter markets. These markets are very traditional and worth seeing. If you want quiet photos, visit early in the morning. The light hits the Plague Column beautifully at sunrise. Most shops and museums open around 9:00 or 10:00 AM. Plan your day to include a mix of indoor and outdoor sites.