The former spinning mill in Semily will be transformed into a cultural center for half a billion crowns

Semily - The reconstruction of the former spinning mill into a multifunctional cultural center for more than half a billion crowns has been started in Semily by the family company Fabrika 1861. They also received a European grant of 258 million crowns for it, said the cultural director of Fabrika 1861, Sebastian Kuršel, to ČTK today.

The reconstruction of the spacious 19th-century building will last until the end of this year, with a ceremonial opening to the public planned for the second half of next year. Even during the reconstruction, however, people will be able to attend various cultural events or tours. "With the reconstruction of the New Spinning Mill, we are building on more than 160 years of the history of a site that is a symbol of the industrial heritage of the region. Given the architectural significance of the building and its historical value, we have emphasized maximum care towards the original structure. We do not want to demolish, but to bring life back, because even forgotten buildings can be full of the future," Kuršel stated.

The spinning mill is part of a six-hectare complex that was the center of the textile industry in the Podkrkonoší region, which was nicknamed the Semily Versailles due to its impressiveness and architectural beauty. During the previous regime, the factory with 18 buildings was known under the name Kolora, which unfortunately ended in liquidation in the late 90s of the last century. In recent years, the family company Fabrika 1861, which owns the complex, has been trying to bring this complex back to life and organizes various cultural and entertainment events there.

After the completion of the reconstruction, there will be nine multipurpose halls in the former spinning mill, with a total area of over 12,000 square meters. They are to serve visual artists, for concerts, exhibitions, conferences, or corporate events. In the top floor, there will be a so-called golden floor, which will be technologically prepared for exhibiting world-renowned works.