The bunker under Špilberk will be opened to the public in Brno

Brno - The underground of Brno accessible to the public is set to expand in the coming years with a route that will also discuss the periods of World War II and the Cold War. The Tourist Information Center (TIC) plans to make the shelter beneath Špilberk Castle accessible. According to TIC director Petra Kačírková, the construction of the route should not be particularly financially demanding. Currently, the spaces contain a number of exhibits, Kačírková told journalists today. The shelter will exceptionally open to the public this Sunday on the occasion of European Heritage Days.
    There is still functional air conditioning, heating, and electrical installations in the shelter, as it remains classified as a civil defense facility. According to Petr Gabriel, head of the municipality's property management department, technical inspections are also regularly conducted there. The equipment includes bunk beds, a telephone exchange, radio equipment, and a tank with a capacity of 51 cubic meters of water. Kačírková noted that the area would need additional equipment, such as from military surplus sales.
    TIC is planning an experiential tour route suitable for those interested in history, technology, and typically for fathers with sons. For example, during the tour, the electric light could be turned off, and it would be necessary to start the underground generator, which is still functional. The audio equipment could also simulate a pressure wave or explosions.
    The origin of the shelter dates back to the 1920s when a company producing fruit wines had several tunnels excavated underground beneath Špilberk. Inside, they also stored mineral water and sold beverages from one of the exits on today's Husova street.
    During World War II, the facility was remodeled, and according to Kačírková, students from Brno high schools were forced to work there. The shelter could accommodate 450 people and served individuals who needed to hide quickly during air raids in the city center.
    The shelter was also considered during the Cold War as a base for the leadership of Brno and municipal officials. Fortunately, the shelter was never needed.
    According to Kačírková, TIC will open the shelter to the public on Sunday to gauge interest. Tours are planned for about 30 people; however, interested parties must first collect a timed ticket on-site. According to deputy mayor Oliver Pospíšil (ČSSD), there would be interest in tours of the shelter if it were permanently accessible. "People are fascinated by the underground. The extent of the underground is demonized anywhere," he said, noting that rumors circulate, for example, that there is an underground corridor from Brno to Prague.