Mělník has completed the renovation of the Míru square with a medieval well

Mělník - Mělník has today completed the revitalization of the historic Peace Square. The project, costing 24.4 million crowns, received a nomination in the Construction of the Year contest in the Central Bohemian Region. The idea for the design and ultimately its current form was derived from the medieval well in the center of the square, architect and author Petra Zajíčková told ČTK today.
"The concept was created in 2006 and has remained unchanged since then. The well is the main element from which the pavement solution originates. The circles represent ripples on the water's surface that radiate from the center," she specified. The well, with a diameter of 4.5 meters and a depth of 54 meters, dates back to the city's founding in the 13th century and was the only source of water for the inhabitants.
The well could not be opened for technical reasons, but its outer and inner diameter are depicted on the pavement. The original entrance is covered by a bronze ring with a glass plate inside. According to the author, a large part of the original paving was also utilized. The color combination of the cubes created not only circles but also rays towards the center of the square visible from the circular street and a wave pattern leading to the fountain. The square is complemented by new metal benches and trees, and the parking system and lighting of the square and arcade have been upgraded.
"The revitalization led to a blend of the square’s exceptional nature with Renaissance buildings and a modern interpretation of a space for people to meet," said Mayor Ctirad Mikeš (ČSSD). According to him, the city achieved a price in the tender significantly lower than the original estimate of about 35 million. European fund subsidies covered 16.1 million crowns, and eligible costs amounted to 22.5 million.
The revitalization was previously criticized by representatives from the independent association and TOP 09, who argued that the facade of the former district office building should also have been repaired. The design of the lamps also met with disapproval from some city residents and opposition politicians.