Ostrava's Masaryk Square will be preparing for reconstruction

Ostrava - Preparatory work for the several-month reconstruction of Masaryk Square in Ostrava will begin next week. The extensive renovation of the central square will start in August and will cost around 94 million crowns, said Marie Václavková, head of the information and public relations department of the city council, to CTK today.
    The square will be fenced off in such a way that all businesses in the square remain accessible. Subsequently, a rescue archaeological survey will begin, which should reveal if there are any rare historical artifacts beneath the square.
    The original rectangular square, bordered by Střelničná and Solná streets and on the other side by Poštovní street and the Ostrava Museum, will be reconstructed. A total of approximately 9,500 square meters will be renovated, with only the Marian Column preserved from the existing appearance of the square.
    For example, 30 brass plates will be placed in the square to remind people of important events in the history of Ostrava. A short text will be attached to each date. "Some plates will also remain blank to be filled in the future. Additionally, the city, in collaboration with the archives, is preparing a brochure for next year not only for tourists but also for the residents of Ostrava that should highlight individual historically significant events," Václavková stated.
    New public lighting, benches, and drinking fountains will be added to the square. The bust of the first president T. G. Masaryk will be moved there from the city council, and a new fountain with water jets will be placed in the middle of the square. The design also includes outdoor seating areas at restaurants. Everything should be completed by this December.