In Písek, the regeneration of the historical core has been completed for 204 million

Písek - The three-year regeneration of the historic core of the city has come to an end today in Písek. A part of the project, which cost 204 million crowns, included particularly the renovation of the malt house, where a unique illustration center is being established. The ramparts have also been restored, and a new promenade has been created from the Stone Bridge to the municipal power plant. The project, one of the largest of its kind in the country, received 125 million crowns from the European Union and 21 million from the state, city representatives told reporters today.
    In Písek, thanks to the project, one-third of the perimeter of the historic core of the city has been restored. In the malt house, which is a technical monument, 2052 square meters of exhibition space has been created, and the open stage in the courtyard of the malt house offers over 1400 square meters. A new passage from the Great Square to the courtyard of the malt house has also been created. The previously unkempt area, which now serves as a relaxation space, is adorned with a fountain and new paving.
    Thanks to the project, at least 19 people will gain permanent jobs. "However, more will likely be needed. Five exhibition spaces, including three permanent exhibits, will be in operation continuously except on Mondays," explained Jiří Hladký, director of the non-profit organization Sladovna. The Illustration Center Písek, abbreviated as CIPísek after the character of local native Radek Pilař, will open in the malt house during this year. It will offer interactive exhibitions dedicated to children's illustration, animated film, and also to the artist Pilař to both young and adult audiences.
    The project authors originally estimated the costs at just under 168 million crowns. However, inflation and especially cracks in the load-bearing arches of the malt house made the project more expensive. "The main issue was the installation of steel beams in the ceilings," explained project manager Petr Matoušek. The metal supports cost 15 million crowns. In addition to about a twelve percent share in the original project, the city also covered the increased costs, totaling 58.5 million crowns.