The Radegast Statue. A name whispered with reverence and fear. Today, we stand before its imposing figure in the heart of Prague Zoo. Did you know that this Radegast, crafted by the skilled hands of Albín Polášek, wasn’t meant to grace this zoo? This statue has a twin. Polášek envisioned a grand set of sculptures, depicting the grandeur of Slavic mythology. He chose the mystical slopes of Radhošť Mountain as their home. This very statue, hewn from red granite, was destined for his own garden, a testament to his Beskydy roots. However, fate, it seemed, had other plans. World War II erupted, casting a long shadow over Europe and disrupting Polášek’s dreams. The tumultuous aftermath, coupled with a debilitating stroke, shattered his hopes of ever returning to his beloved homeland. Meanwhile, this Radegast statue lay forgotten, buried beneath layers of earth and leaves in the former Mašek’s foundry. Years later, it was unearthed, a silent sentinel from a bygone era. Deemed a fitting resident for the zoo due to its fierce lion-like visage and the bull’s head helmet, the Radegast Statue found a new home amongst the living creatures of the world. Though not the destiny Polášek envisioned, it stands tall, a powerful symbol of resilience and unexpected journeys.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to