Czech heritage sites encounter renovation disputes over Špilberk roof plan and Dobříš castle restoration

The Museum of the City of Brno proposes a permanent roof over the large courtyard of Špilberk Castle to enable cultural events throughout the year. The National Heritage Institute has rejected the plan, labeling it unacceptable and warning that it would fundamentally alter the historic character of the protected monument. Cost estimates for the glass‑covered structure range from 80 to 100 million crowns.

Meanwhile, Dobříš Castle continues a multi‑year renovation of its park and orangery. The project includes the restoration of Central Europe’s largest wall illusion, funded by 99 million crowns, largely from European Union grants. Director Pavel Krejcárek said, “It is now repaired. I do not claim that nothing more will be needed, because the work is so large that we will be repairing it every year, but the major part is finished.” Ongoing work targets an 18th‑century fountain and structural repairs to the castle building itself.