Jul 07 2008
Crucifix statue
You can see a Crucifix statue on the right side of the Charles Bridge; it is one of the most interesting statues with a very fascinating history. Original crucifix was made of wood after 1361 and it was changed several times later. The most remarkable is the addition done in 1696 – gilded inscription on the pedestal, saying “Saint, saint, saint is the God of the crowds” written in Hebrew to serve as a punishment for a Prague Jew. These words are an important confession of faith in the Jewish tradition as they are the origin of the Sanctus in the Mass and their placement in this context has been perceived by some as offensive. That’s why in 2000 a bronze tablet was mounted under the statue by the city of Prague authorities with explanatory text in Czech, English and Hebrew. Besides the Crucifix there are Virgin Mary and John the Evangelist.
