Znojmo is in dispute with heritage experts over the appearance of the roof on the Střelniční Tower

Znojmo - Znojmo is in a dispute with heritage officials over the roof of the Střelniční Tower, which is part of the medieval city fortifications. The structure lost its original roof about 150 years ago, and its appearance is unknown. The town hall would like to build a romantic wooden roof on the tower and create a new attraction with a viewpoint from it. However, the National Heritage Institute (NPÚ) disagrees. Znojmo should propose a different design for the roof of the structure, said Petr Kroupa, the director of the Brno NPÚ, to ČTK.
    The considerations for utilizing the Střelniční Tower began in connection with the reconstruction of the city fortifications. According to the city’s leadership, its roof should be the same as that of the nearby Vlkovy Tower. The original project also included the construction of a walkway around the Střelniční Tower, which would create a completely new tourist attraction.
    However, it is certainly unclear what kind of roof the Střelniční Tower actually had. Although it is likely that it had a wooden roof, which looks romantic in appearance, the heritage officials disagree with its construction. They cite several reasons. "We do not have certainty that this roof was actually there. Moreover, if we were to build it, it would be as if we were saying that everything can be demolished and simply rebuilt. The structure was already altered 150 years ago when it lost its roof, and we should respect that history," Kroupa stated.
    According to him, the tower's roofing can be considered, but in a different style. The heritage officials would not oppose a modern interpretation of the roof, possibly even using glass. Znojmo is now considering changing the project. It will again be submitted for approval to the National Heritage Institute.
    The heritage officials are also not in favor of the idea that the Střelniční Tower would become a lookout point. Kroupa pointed out that a successful nearby town hall tower serves this purpose. He sees the utilization of the Střelniční Tower more in its transformation into a space for social events.