From the tower of the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Benešov n. P. there could be an observation tower

Benešov nad Ploučnicí - From the tower at the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Benešov nad Ploučnicí in the Děčín region, a lookout tower could be built. It is probably the oldest tower in the district, dating back to the early 15th century, and originally served a defensive purpose. Now the citizens of the town and believers are contributing to its restoration, said priest Jiří Kovář to ČTK.

In the future, people will be able to look out over the town and the surrounding forests from this cultural Gothic monument. Currently, only part of the tower has been restored, which likely predates the church. "This year, we plan to clad the tower, but not all of it will be done. At the beginning of the year, the budget was about 2.5 million, but now everything has gone up. We have a promised contribution of 800,000 crowns. The town has approved 50,000 crowns as a contribution, and the diocese has contributed 70,000 crowns," listed the priest the current budget for construction works on the future lookout tower. He added that building materials and labor have increased in price since the beginning of the year, so it is uncertain what will be repaired this year and what will have to wait until next year.

According to the priest, the priority is to repair the tower, but the roof of the church is also in poor condition, and its vaults are cracked. Interestingly, when climbing the steep stairs to the tower, one can turn aside and look down at the three-nave sacred building from above. However, according to the priest, the public will likely not be allowed there; a railing and reinforced paths would have to be built.

If enough money is raised and the parish receives another grant from the Ministry of Culture for the repairs, the lookout tower could be accessible in the summer of next year.