The list of monuments should, according to Seitlová, prompt the city councils to take action

Brno - The list of the most endangered monuments in the Czech Republic, created by the National Heritage Institute, should, according to ombudsman deputy Jitka Seitlová, prompt municipalities to take quick and decisive action. She told ČTK today that cities are legally obligated, in extreme cases where a monument is in immediate danger, to undertake basic construction adjustments even at their own expense.
    "On one hand, it is nice that the list of monuments has been created, but on the other hand, it must be acted upon. It is the responsibility of the municipal offices in charge of monuments," emphasized the ombudsman deputy.
    Municipalities are obliged to contact the owners of endangered monuments, encourage them to carry out repairs as soon as possible, or provide them with advice. If the owner of the damaged monument is unknown or the historical building is at risk, the city must ensure basic repairs.
    Pavel Jerie, director of the National Heritage Institute, agrees that the entrusted municipalities responsible for heritage care should be more active. According to him, expropriation of damaged monuments or covering the most necessary repairs by municipalities should only be approached in the most extreme cases.
   "We rather want municipalities to negotiate with the owners of the monuments. Officials can advise them, for example, on where to draw grants necessary for repairs, municipalities can help with the use of renovated buildings, or contribute a small amount for adjustments," Jerie stated.
    According to him, the list of the most endangered monuments in the country is important for investors interested in purchasing and utilizing historic buildings. Officials responsible for heritage care in municipalities should assist in such transactions.
    The list of the most endangered monuments can be found at http://monumnet.npu.cz. It currently comprises 600 items. According to some estimates, thousands of buildings across the country are deteriorating, which are either heritage-protected or deserve such protection.