The Hradec Králové diocese is preparing the renovation of the cathedral

Hradec Králové - The preparation of the reconstruction project of the Hradec Králové Cathedral of the Holy Spirit could be completed by the end of this year. If successful, in 2020, the Deanery of the Holy Spirit, as the administrator of the cathedral, will apply for a grant. The start of the reconstruction would thus be significantly closer. This was stated to ČTK by the Dean of the Hradec Parish and Canon Curator of the Cathedral Chapter, František Hladký. The reconstruction of the Gothic cathedral is to be divided into three phases and according to preliminary estimates, it would cost 100 million Czech crowns.

"The project documentation is nearing completion, we are waiting for the results of the architectural-historical survey, which should be ready in the summer," Hladký told ČTK.

He did not want to estimate when the reconstruction might begin. "It will depend on whether we can secure funding for the reconstruction. If everything goes well, we could apply for a grant next year. Then we will see what happens next," he stated.

One of the considered funding options, according to the bishopric, is a grant from the so-called Norwegian funds.

In the first phase, two towers of the cathedral should be repaired, including the sandstone neo-Gothic balustrade, roofing, and other elements. The repair of these parts is urgent. "This phase will take place while the cathedral is in operation, it will continue to function during the work," Hladký said.

The second phase should involve the reconstruction of the outer shell of the brick structure, and the third phase should dehumidify the cathedral. The repair is expected to take a total of two years.

The Cathedral of the Holy Spirit is a Gothic brick structure, with parts made of sandstone. It consists of three naves. The cathedral is 56 meters long, 25 meters wide, and 33 meters high. The towers are 39.5 meters high to the main cornice. It is one of the most significant monuments in Hradec Králové. The beginning of the construction is surrounded by mystery, as the foundation charter has not survived. According to tradition, it was commissioned by Czech Queen Eliška Rejčka in 1307, who resided in the city from 1308 to 1318. However, the construction was completed later.