Holešov is completing the reconstruction of the bridge to the castle for seven million crowns

Holešov - Workers are completing the reconstruction of the access bridge to the castle in Holešov, which was in a state of disrepair. The new wide ramp over the former water moat covers a unique early Baroque bridge that builders uncovered two years ago. Thanks to the new structure above it, the valuable monument will be accessible to the public. The costs for the modification of access to the castle amount to seven million crowns, and the work will last until the end of November, said Mayor Rudolf Seifert (TOP 09) to reporters today.

According to historian and heritage expert of the Holešov municipal office Karel Bartošek, builders and architects considered for several years how to repair the bridge so that the original 17th-century bridge would remain underneath. "Eventually, they came up with a lightweight shell construction, where a new ramp was created above the uncovered and restored early Baroque bridge. But not as a heavy fill, but as a reinforced concrete shell that rests on the top part of the old bridge deck and is passable on the sides. It is a kind of exhibition of the early Baroque bridge, which simultaneously covers and preserves it," Bartošek said.

The original two-arch bridge from the second half of the 17th century will be available for interested visitors to view thanks to an access spiral staircase that will be built in the coming weeks. The monument is expected to become part of special tour circuits of the castle. "The bridge is exceptionally old, dating back to the 1650s. There are three of these Baroque bridges preserved in Moravia. It has remained in its authentic form, which is not only a Moravian but also a European rarity," Bartošek added.

The recently discovered bridge is in very good, practically intact condition. The bridge's collar made of stone and bricks is well preserved, as are the arches of both spans. They were uncovered after undermining the southern side of the bridge.

The Renaissance castle was built in Holešov in the 1570s on the site of a former Gothic fortress. At the end of the Thirty Years' War in 1643, the castle was looted and burned by the Swedes. In this state, it was purchased in 1651 by Count Jan of Rottal, who commissioned its reconstruction in the spirit of early Baroque. It was completed before 1674.

The last significant construction changes to the castle occurred in the period of late Classicism, that is, in the mid-19th century. In 1948, the castle was nationalized, and in 1992 it was returned to a private owner through restitution. The Holešov municipal office bought it from her in 2005 for 13.4 million crowns. Since then, the city has invested over 300 million CZK in its repairs, about one-third of this amount came from grants. The cellars, ground floor, and first floor of the castle have gradually been renovated. The courtyard, facades, and partially the garden have also undergone reconstruction. The castle hosts exhibitions and concerts, and the courtyard and garden serve for various events including festivals.