Litomyšl is preparing for the revitalization of the Castle Hill

Litomyšl (Svitavy District) - Litomyšl wants to make the most of the monuments that the city offers. With funding from the European Union, it plans to revitalize the Castle Hill, including a complex of historical buildings such as the Renaissance castle, which is listed on the prestigious UNESCO list. The renovated buildings and areas should offer a range of activities and become self-sufficient centers with minimal dependence on the state treasury. This was announced today at a press conference by the mayor of Litomyšl, Michal Kortyš.
    "The castle is one of the symbols of the city. The Castle Hill has remained somewhat overlooked," he said.
    Historical buildings should provide a spiritual center, historical and regional exhibitions, as well as a cross-section of the current state of the region, along with classical and contemporary music festivals. Study and creative stays, conferences, and social events should take place in Litomyšl. There should be a sufficient supply of catering facilities and accommodation. "Educational programs will balance the current seasonality of life on the hill," Kortyš said.
    The project is divided into nine parts. It plans two phases of repairs to the castle, primarily restoring the castle's rooms, repairing facades and roofing, renewing the first courtyard, and repairing the Riding School, Coach House, Stables, and Riding Hall, Kortyš added.
    The castle park of the English type, public spaces in front of the castle, and the castle gardens are also to be transformed. There are also plans to restore the Noble House, the Piarist College, and to restore the interior and furnishings of the Piarist Church. Repairs to the Piarist Gymnasium and the New Brewery are also in the works, Kortyš added.
    "Project activities are already being prepared and also include the modernization of mobile equipment for the main stage of the Smetanova Litomyšl music festival," Kortyš said.
    According to estimates, the project will cost 642 million CZK, of which 75 to 95 percent may come from European grants. The remaining amount should be contributed by the state, the Pardubice Region, and Litomyšl.
    "The Integrated Operational Program has not yet been approved in Brussels, and it is unclear whether there will be grants for UNESCO monuments or also for related infrastructure. We are optimistic and believe that we will receive at least part of the funds for some activities," said spokesperson for Litomyšl, Michaela Severová.