Plague Pillar

In the heart of Košice, Slovakia, stands the majestic Plague Pillar, a baroque masterpiece that tells a story of survival, gratitude, and artistry. Known locally as Immaculata, this monument is a testament to the resilience of the Košice community, who overcame the devastating plague of the early 18th century. The Plague Pillar is not just a historical artifact but a symbol of hope and faith, capturing the imagination of every visitor who strolls down Hlavná Street in the historic center of Košice.

The Story Behind the Plague Pillar

The origins of the Plague Pillar date back to a dark period between 1709 and 1710 when Košice was ravaged by a severe plague. As the disease waned, the survivors, grateful for their lives, decided to erect a monument in thanksgiving. This initiative was led by Viktorín Flachenfeld, the postal administrator at the time. What makes the Plague Pillar particularly fascinating is its location; it was erected on an old military execution site, transforming a place of death into a symbol of life and hope.

The construction of the Plague Pillar was no small feat. It required not only financial resources but also the expertise of skilled artisans. The architectural design was entrusted to Tomáš Tornyosi, a renowned builder from Košice. For the intricate sculptures, sculptor Šimon Grimming was brought on board, while the goldsmith Juraj Immerwohl crafted the allegorical reliefs representing Plague, War, and Famine from gilded copper.

The Artistic Marvel of the Plague Pillar

Standing at an impressive height of 14 meters, the Plague Pillar is crowned by the statue of the Immaculata, or the Virgin Mary, symbolizing purity, love, and protection. Her presence is intended to shield the city from future misfortunes. The Virgin Mary is depicted with a crown of twelve stars above her head, a striking image that captures the essence of baroque art with its flowing robes and dynamic forms.

Below the Virgin Mary, the monument features statues of St. Joseph, St. Sebastian, and St. Ladislaus, each contributing to the narrative of faith and resilience. Interestingly, hidden within the ensemble is a statue of St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, adding a touch of romance to this historical monument.

A Monument of Controversy and Devotion

The Plague Pillar has not been without its share of controversy. In its early years, tensions between Protestants and Catholics led to an incident where a Calvinist pastor allegedly attached a derogatory inscription to the statue. This act resulted in his imprisonment and subsequent banishment, a decision made by the city council and mitigated by the ruling monarch of the time.

In response to such incidents, the citizens of Košice took measures to protect the monument. They organized collections for eternal lights and established funds for lamps and frequent devotions at the statue. The fervor of the Catholic community even led to the establishment of night watches and the appointment of a guardian to ensure the monument's safety.

Preservation and Restoration

Over the centuries, the Plague Pillar has undergone several restorations, reflecting the community's dedication to preserving this emblem of their heritage. The first restoration took place in 1757, followed by others in 1776, 1829, 1856, and 1872. The 1829 restoration was particularly significant, funded by voluntary contributions under the guidance of Bishop Ignác Fábry.

In the 19th century, the reliefs were removed and eventually became part of the collections at the East Slovak Museum. The 20th century saw further restorations, including significant efforts by sculptor Vojtech Löffler after World War II. The most recent restoration, completed in 2000, involved replacing the original statues with faithful replicas crafted by academic sculptor Stanislav Kožela, supported by a grant from the VÚB Bank Foundation.

Visiting the Plague Pillar Today

Today, the Plague Pillar stands proudly in Košice, surrounded by a park and the State Theatre, offering a serene yet awe-inspiring sight for visitors. The fence, added in 1909, is adorned with statues of saints and angels, including St. Elizabeth of Thuringia, St. Margaret, St. Barbara, and St. Elizabeth of Portugal, as well as the archangels Gabriel and Michael, all crafted by sculptor Leopold Hild.

As you explore the Plague Pillar, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and the stories they tell. This monument is not just a piece of art; it is a narrative of a community's journey through hardship and their unwavering spirit. The Plague Pillar is a must-see for anyone visiting Košice, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and the resilience of its people.