After 15 years, the restoration of the Renaissance bridge in Stříbro will be completed this year

Silver (Tachov Region) - After 15 years of gradual repairs, this year will see the completion of extensive restoration of the unique stone bridge in Silver. So far, the rescue of the Renaissance bridge from the 16th century has cost nearly 20 million crowns. The final stage of the reconstruction of one of the most significant technical monuments in the Plzeň Region will amount to approximately 1.5 million crowns. CTK was informed by Mayor Karel Lukeš (Independents).
    "The Ministry of Culture provides a subsidy of 400,000 crowns every year. Even though one stage costs us two million crowns, we are grateful for it," said the mayor. The restoration of the 60-meter-long and six-meter-wide bridge has been included in the architectural heritage rescue program.
    The largest and most famous monument in Silver is also featured on a gold commemorative coin, which was issued by the Czech National Bank in 2011 with a nominal value of 5000 crowns. The stone bridge over the Mže River with a Renaissance multi-storey bridge tower and a hexagonal roof dates back to 1555 to 1560. The bridge tower is only matched in the Czech Republic by the Charles Bridge in Prague.
    The Silver bridge, owned by the city, has been preserved in its original condition to this day. The original surface layers are preserved under the existing bridge deck. The tower, arches, and flood control parts, such as the access ramps, drainage, parapet walls, and plaster, have been restored. In the last three stages, the stone paving has been renewed.
    Silver will try to apply for the same grant program for the city walls starting next year. "Those costs will be much higher," said the mayor. The walls, which are visible on the way to Silver, are either already repaired or under repair, according to Lukeš. However, there are walls in the park that have collapsed, and their repair has been estimated at tens of millions of crowns.
    The most significant structure in the regeneration of the urban heritage zone so far has been the square, which was reconstructed two years ago. "They are still missing the advantageous part and surrounding communication," Lukeš noted. The square, which had a projected cost of 55 million crowns, ultimately cost around 30 million crowns. "It's strange that many locals complain about the new appearance. But anyone who comes from outside is thrilled," he stated. The city museum required an additional approximately 15 million crowns.
    The city is now having a strategic development plan prepared for the next eight to twelve years. "The former fire station, right in the square, deserves to be uplifted, as it is abandoned. Further discussions are about a community house, but it is still in the preparation and resolution phase," added Lukeš.