NPÚ does not like the form of the planned repairs of Judith's Tower at Charles Bridge

Prague - The National Heritage Institute (NPÚ) disagrees with the planned reconstruction project of Judith's Tower on Charles Bridge in Prague. CTK was informed by the institute's spokesperson Jan Cieslar. The repairs are planned by Prague 1, which is criticized by the Club for Old Prague for the manner and form of the project. The club has rented the tower from the city. According to NPÚ, if the reconstruction takes place, there is a risk that the national cultural monument will lose its historical authenticity.

Judith's Tower, also known as the Lesser Town Bridge Tower, is the shorter of the two towers that form the gateway from Charles Bridge to the Lesser Town. The structure was part of Judith's Bridge, which stood on the site of today's Charles Bridge, and was built in the Romanesque style in the 12th century.

"The position of NPÚ stems from concerns about the possible risk of losing the authenticity of Judith's Tower, which arise from the study submitted by the designer. The proposed structural interventions raised the greatest concerns, and thus the proposal as a whole was rejected," the NPÚ spokesperson stated. He added that considering the significance of Charles Bridge, it is necessary to approach the reconstruction of the tower, which is essential, with maximum sensitivity. According to preservationists, the town hall's plans are too invasive and unnecessarily interfere with the structure of the building.

The Club for Old Prague also criticizes the town hall for its approach and reconstruction plans, as it has been based in the tower since 1927 and has a lease agreement until 2093. The club has operated a bookstore in the tower since 2007 and organizes lectures, concerts, and other events for the public.

Similar to NPÚ, the association considers the planned reconstruction to be too invasive and is also concerned that the town hall will evict them from the monument and create spaces for tourists. Prague 1 denies this, stating that according to town hall spokesperson Veronika Blažková, the contract is valid and the association will need to find alternative spaces only during the reconstruction.

According to Prague 1, their intent is supported by municipal preservationists, whose opinion is binding, unlike that of NPÚ, and building authorities must adhere to it. The monument is in a critical condition and requires a complete renovation. Water is leaking into the tower, and a mycological survey has revealed wood-decaying fungi in the structure. According to the town hall spokesperson, any delays in repairs pose a risk of irreversible damage to the building.