The uncovered palace at Svojanov Castle is cracking, it needs to be tied down with ropes

Svojanov – Svojanov Castle in the Svitavy region needs to stabilize its uncovered Gothic-Renaissance palace, which has developed serious cracks. If no action is taken, there is a risk that the structure could collapse in the future. Work is expected to begin possibly this summer or in September, according to castle keeper Pavel Haluza.

"Cables will be anchored into the building, creating a sort of ring that will pull the structure together. This is a longer-term solution that should ensure the stability of the building. It is a tested technology," said Haluza.

The palace is already visible from the parking lot and is part of the outdoor tour where visitors can explore the monument without a guide. The ruins have been roofless for several centuries. According to the castle keeper, during socialism, the monument management attempted to reinforce the structure with concrete, which only worsened its state.

"There is no roof, so rainwater seeps into the walls. The last winters have been variable; it freezes, then it thaws, and then it freezes again. Water simply infiltrates the walls, and as it freezes, the wall cracks," said Haluza.

The work to save the structure is planned for August or September and will cost 1.7 million crowns. The owner of the monument, the city of Polička, will cover the expenses, and the Pardubice region has also contributed with subsidies.

Next year, the castle management will also need to address the access road, which also shows structural defects. "It is a filled ditch on which a retaining wall was built. It practically has no foundation and due to erosion, the slope is gradually giving way," said Haluza.

Svojanov Castle is one of the oldest Czech castles. It was founded in the 13th century by King Přemysl Otakar II as part of a defense system on the border between Bohemia and Moravia. It has undergone several renovations, and today its area consists of a collection of Gothic, Renaissance, and later buildings.