The relief is part of a project initiated by Radomír Dvořák to create a memorial for Jaroslav Hašek, the author of The Good Soldier Švejk.
The sculptures are carved directly into the natural granite walls of the Lipnice quarries, which were formerly used for stone extraction.
The series includes three distinct reliefs: Ústa pravdy (Mouth of Truth), Bretschneiderovo ucho (Bretschneider’s Ear), and Zlaté oči (Golden Eyes).
The quarry setting was chosen to honor the geological history of the region and the specific aesthetic of the granite landscape.
The Mouth of Truth specifically draws inspiration from the iconic marble mask in Rome believed to bite the hands of liars.
Ústa pravdy, or Mouth of Truth, is a monumental granite relief carved into the wall of a flooded granite quarry near Lipnice nad Sázavou. It is one of three massive, larger-than-life sculptures collectively known as the National Memorial to the Jaroslav Hašek’s Listener of the Good Soldier Švejk. Sculpted by Radomír Dvořák and his team, the work depicts a giant open mouth, referencing the Roman Bocca della Verità. The carving sits within an abandoned, water-filled quarry that has become a site for open-air art. The sculpture is part of a thematic trail that connects several distinct carvings located in the surrounding woods. Visitors reach the site via a forest path that leads directly to the water's edge.
From the trail level directly opposite the rock face to capture the full scale of the relief reflected in the quarry water.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes as the terrain around the quarry can be uneven and muddy.
Bring mosquito repellent, as the stagnant water in the quarry often attracts insects during warm months.
Combine this visit with the other two nearby sculptures to experience the full National Memorial trail.
Attempting to swim in the quarry, as the water depth is unpredictable and the bottom contains submerged rock debris.
Respect the natural environment by packing out all trash and avoiding climbing on unstable rock faces.
