Local folklore suggests that a single touch to the statue's foot will grant a woman’s wish for motherhood.
The statue is frequently adorned with seasonal flowers or decorations by town staff to reflect local festivities.
Františkovy Lázně, the town where the statue is located, was named after Emperor Francis I of Austria.
The statue's design is heavily linked to the local mineral spring culture, which characterizes the town's medical tourism history.
The Statue of František, known locally as 'Franzl,' is the primary symbol of the spa town Františkovy Lázně. The bronze sculpture depicts a small boy holding a fish and sitting on a sphere, representing the town's focus on fertility and healing waters. It is situated in the town's central park area near the main spa colonnade. Local tradition claims that touching the statue's left big toe ensures fertility for women visiting the spa. The statue has become an iconic emblem of the city's identity since its installation. It serves as a central meeting point for tourists walking through the historic spa district.
From the front, capturing the statue with the background of the park’s trees and well-manicured flower beds.
Visit during the weekday mornings to avoid crowds of visitors waiting to touch the statue.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding spa park, which features extensive historical architecture.
Look for the smaller replica statues located in various shops around the town center.
Do not mistake the statue for a historical ancient monument; it is a modern symbolic piece of spa town culture.
Respect the surrounding quiet atmosphere of the spa park; do not climb on the pedestal.
