Monument of Adalbert Lanna the Elder 🇨🇿

If you are exploring the city of České Budějovice in the Czech Republic, head to the Sady city park near the western end of Lannova třída Street to view the impressive Monument of Adalbert Lanna the Elder. Dedicated to the locally born businessman and industrialist, this historic outdoor sculpture stands 664 cm tall overall, featuring a 269 cm bronze figure of Lanna atop a cylinder decorated with reliefs and a red Bayreuth granite pedestal.

Created between 1866 and 1879 under the artistic direction of Franz Pönninger at the Imperial-Royal Artistic Foundry in Vienna, the monument was largely funded by a public collection. You will discover a piece of art with a dramatic history: after its original 1879 unveiling, it survived World War II only to be pulled down by a crowd in May 1945.

Heavily damaged and hidden away for decades, it was carefully restored and re-erected in the park in 1993. Strolling through the green space, you can admire the restored bronze craftsmanship, read the historical German inscriptions, and study the detailed cylindrical reliefs that depict idealized, symbolic scenes of industry and progress.

What to see at Monument of Adalbert Lanna the Elder

• The 269 cm bronze statue of Adalbert Lanna the Elder set upon a red Bayreuth granite pedestal
• Detailed cylindrical reliefs depicting idealized symbolic scenes of science, labor, and progress
• Engraved German inscriptions praising Lanna's tireless industrial work and dedication to education
• A dramatic history spanning its 1879 unveiling, post-WWII tearing down, and 1993 re-erection

Visiting tips

Look closely at the back of the bronze pedestal to see the signatures of sculptor Franz Pönninger and the Viennese Imperial-royal foundry.

How long: 15-30 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Monument of Adalbert Lanna the Elder is easy to reach on České Budějovice’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Cathedral of St Nicholas, České Budějovice and Black Tower. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our České Budějovice travel guide.