Statue of St. John of Nepomuk in Vranová Lhota

The statue of St. John of Nepomuk stands in the village of Vranová Lhota, in the Svitavy district of the Pardubice Region, close to the right bank of the Třebůvka river, on the edge of the Drahanská vrchovina highlands between the towns of Jevíčko and Loštice. The stone figure dates from 1715, making it one of the older pieces of small sacred architecture preserved in this part of Moravia.

Where exactly is the statue located?

The statue stands within the village itself, close to two other local landmarks: the Church of St. Catherine and a roadside Cyril and Methodius cross. Its coordinates are approximately 49.717363 N, 16.825776 E, placing it almost at the heart of Vranová Lhota, a village first mentioned in written records as early as 1258.

Why St. John of Nepomuk?

St. John of Nepomuk is one of the most frequently commemorated saints across the Czech countryside — patron of bridges, of the seal of confession, and traditionally invoked for protection against floods. Stone statues of the saint were typically erected along roads, at bridges, or in village centers as an expression of gratitude or a request for protection. The statue in Vranová Lhota follows this same widespread regional custom, marking a significant spot in the village while asking for the saint's intercession.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

Despite its small size, Vranová Lhota gathers several notable sites within easy reach of one another. Close to the statue stands the Church of St. Catherine, originally Gothic and rebuilt in Baroque style in 1788 — the village's main landmark. Nearby, visitors can also find the Cyril and Methodius roadside cross, another element of local sacred tradition. History enthusiasts can extend a visit to the ruins of the Gothic Vraní Hora castle, dating back to the 14th century — evidence of a much older, defensive past that predates Baroque works such as the statue itself.

How to get there and what to expect?

The village lies off the main tourist routes of the Svitavy region, so the statue and its neighboring monuments are mostly visited by travelers deliberately seeking out lesser-known corners of Moravia. Arriving by car is the most practical option — Vranová Lhota sits between Jevíčko and Loštice, both of which can serve as a starting point for a short trip through the area. The statue itself is accessible year-round and free to view, since it stands in an open public space.

Frequently asked questions

When was the statue made? It dates from 1715 and is carved from stone.

Where exactly is it located? In the village of Vranová Lhota, Svitavy district, Pardubice Region, near the Třebůvka river.

Are there other monuments nearby? Yes — the Church of St. Catherine (rebuilt in Baroque style in 1788), a Cyril and Methodius cross, and the 14th-century ruins of Vraní Hora castle.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the statue stands in a public space and can be viewed free of charge at any time.

Why is this place worth a stop? It offers an authentic, small Moravian village with several layers of history — from a medieval castle to a Baroque statue and church.