The Devil Heads – Želízy, Czechia - Atlas Obscura

The Devil Heads

Želízy, Czechia

Two monstrous faces loom over a village in Czechia. 

118
869
Related Stories
The Devil's Heads
hidden

Curious and Compelling Statues in the Czech Republic

The country is home to the world's strangest and most thought-provoking statues.
Top Places in Czechia
The bones are artfully displayed.
St. Valentine’s Shoulder Blade
Prague, Czechia

Memorial to the Victims of Communism
Prague, Czechia

Hostina Obrů (Feast of Giants)
Liberec, Czechia
See All

A disturbing sight awaits hikers exploring the forest above the village of Želízy in Kokořínsko, a protected landscape area in Czechia. There, two enormous demonic faces carved from the native stone stare back with empty eyes.

Created by Vaclav Levy in the mid-1800s, the nearly 30-foot-tall stone heads are known locally as Certovy Hlavy or the “The Devil Heads.” They have been a local attraction for generations. Other carvings by the artist, including artificial caves and scenes inspired by fairy tales, adorn nearby rock faces.

Now suffering slightly from the ravages of time and weather, the faces have grown less distinct over time, but no less disturbing.

Know Before You Go

You can see the rock faces from the street.

In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web