The reconstruction of Třebíč square is accompanied by an archaeological survey

Třebíč - Together with the reconstruction of Třebíč's Karlovo náměstí, an archaeological rescue excavation commenced in its center a week ago. So far, the archaeologists have managed to uncover medieval layers and found several small objects, including a gaming die and coins of King Václav II from the early 14th century. The city intends to exhibit the findings in the future, Mayor Pavel Pacal (Pro Třebíč) told reporters today.

According to the head of the research, archaeologist Aleš Hoch from the Museum of Vysočina Jihlava, the excavation is still in its early stages. Eight pits have been uncovered. The work will continue in the winter, depending on the construction progress and weather conditions. According to Hoch, such an extensive investigation has not been conducted at Karlovo náměstí before. "In the 1930s, sewer systems were installed here and it was somewhat monitored by local researchers, from which materials are derived. But the documentation, of course, does not correspond with the current modern approach to research," Hoch told ČTK.

At a depth of about one meter below the current terrain, there are remains from the 13th to 15th centuries. "The most recent find is a fragment of a fired tile engraved with the board game mill. This is a beautiful item and quite unique. Of course, there are coins, there are Prague groschen, bracteates. And the most beautiful find so far is the pilgrimage badge of Saint Gilge," Hoch said. According to him, the symbol of pilgrimage indicates a journey to southern France to the Mediterranean Sea.

Archaeologists hope to uncover the remains of fountains or vestiges of the settlement that stood in the place of the town from the middle of the 13th century. "So far, we have not encountered any constructions along the excavation route, but it's still just a relatively narrow strip," Hoch said.

According to him, structures have been preserved at the Jejkov Gate, which connects to the square in the eastern part. The research there concluded in the summer. By that time, they managed to document elements of medieval fortifications, including the foundations of a tower gate, an older wall from the first half of the 14th century, and its younger counterpart from the 15th century, the remains of which are still visible today. "This was followed by a now-defunct ditch, which has only been preserved in a local name. The ditch was crossed by a bridge, of which it was completely unknown that it existed and it had a stone form," Hoch said.

The design for the transformation of the approximately two-hectare square was prepared by the Brno Atelier R.A.W. It includes new paving, parking areas, greenery, furniture, and the return of water features. Including the repair of water and sewer systems underground, the costs will be 133 million crowns (excluding VAT). The reconstruction is expected to be completed by September 2022.