The reconstruction of the column in Olomouc is progressing more quickly; workers will remove the scaffolding

Olomouc – The reconstruction of the Column of the Holy Trinity in the historic center of Olomouc is progressing faster than expected. Workers will be able to remove the scaffolding, which has surrounded the 32-meter-high monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for over two years, by the end of the summer holidays. This was reported on social media by the mayor's deputy, Miloslav Tichý (ANO).

"The contractor is faster and will begin to completely take down the scaffolding by the end of the holidays," Tichý said. In October, workers will also remove the facilities for restorers around the column, which is surrounded by a metal fence because of this. Technicians will then start restoring the lighting of the monumental Baroque column. "The original reconstruction deadline was until Christmas. The Christmas markets will thus take place against the beautiful backdrop of the restored Column of the Holy Trinity without scaffolding," Tichý noted.

The more than two-year reconstruction of the Column of the Holy Trinity will cost about 30 million crowns, with most costs covered by a grant. Experts repaired the stone decoration of the column, which had a damaged surface, covered cracks, and replaced old putties from previous restoration efforts. The reconstruction also included the restoration of metal elements and gilding.

The last major restoration of the Baroque Column of the Holy Trinity, which is one of the main tourist attractions in Olomouc, lasted almost a year and a half and was completed in 2001. At that time, experts removed damaged statues from the column, among other tasks. In the following years, the monument underwent several additional expert interventions.

The column is the work of Václav Render and his followers. The sculptural decoration was created by Filip Sattler and Ondřej Zahner. The Baroque column was built between 1716 and 1754. Thanks to its inscription on the UNESCO list, the sculpture attracts tourists from all over the world, including visitors from Japan, China, and South Korea to Olomouc.