The space above the underground remains of the Stalin monument could be opened up

Prague - The closed space in Letná, where there was a risk of collapse into the underground of the former Stalin monument, could be reopened. In a report available to ČTK, this was recommended by the city-hired company Inset, which examined the area. It is in poor condition and was closed in September due to the potential for collapse. Prague, as the owner, is expected to submit a proposal by the end of the year regarding the future of the space. City spokesman Vít Hofman stated that the city would reopen the area, but it would be monitored by guards, and gatherings of more than a few people would not be allowed. The mayor of Prague 7, Jan Čižinský (Prague Sobě), welcomed the conclusion of the test.

"Given the measured minimal deformations, we recommend that residents' movement not be restricted and that existing barriers be removed in full," the document available to ČTK states.

The test load was performed using a vehicle weighing 3.5 tons that drove over various parts of the ceiling of the underground space. From below, the company set up measuring points at approximately two hundred locations. The test revealed several categories of deformation, including small deflections of up to 0.02 millimeters, as well as medium and larger ones ranging from 0.05 millimeters to 0.12 millimeters.

"We will reopen the surface area; however, larger gatherings could cause problems, so we will monitor the space together with the guards," Hofman stated. He did not provide a timeline for when this would happen. Testing of solid plates will also continue. "This includes geological surveys, load tests, and more. We have results from partial tests, and a definitive assessment should be available within a few months," he added.

"The structure's statics are in a much better state than expected. Finally, we have data, not just impressions. Visitors and skateboarders can use the base of the monument as they are used to. I am glad that the place will continue to function for people," Čižinský said in response to a question from ČTK. He did not specify when the area would be reopened.

According to the document, the test results allow for the return of pedestrians to the currently closed area and the use of machinery for the reconstruction of the underground. However, during the actual repairs, the company recommended storing materials or parts of the pendulum, weighing hundreds of kilograms, outside the area of the underground structures.

The building authority decided to close off approximately 1,000 square meters of area. The city is now planning to temporarily support the roof of the underground structure. How the underground space will be used in the future has not yet been decided by the city.

Residents protested against the closure of the area, having gathered several thousand signatures on a petition.

The Stalin monument was created in 1955. At the time, with a height of over 15 meters, a width of 12 meters, and a length of 22 meters, it was the largest group sculpture in Europe. The monument was dismantled at the end of 1962 when criticism of Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev towards Stalin spread.