<div>In Písek, a promenade has been created along the river from the Stone Bridge.</div>

Písek - A new paved promenade has been created along the banks of the Otava River in Písek between the historic Stone Bridge and the Křižík Electric Plant. The construction of the new path, installation of lighting, and cast-iron railings cost seven million crowns. The promenade is part of a project to regenerate the historical core of the city for 168 million crowns, three-quarters of which was funded by the European Union.
    "The promenade from the Stone Bridge towards the Křižík Electric Plant and further to the ramparts in Písek has never existed before. This is the very first time there is a dignified promenade here where people can walk around the historical core of the city," said project spokesperson Eva Kadlčáková to reporters today. Písek aims to enliven the promenade with various events in the future. "We will try to make better use of the renovated space during celebrations," said the city’s deputy mayor Eva Veselá.
    The previous path was unpaved and later covered with panels due to works at the malt house to avoid damage from heavy machinery. It has now been enhanced with cobblestones and stone slabs on the steps. Three gentle stairs leading down to the Otava serve as a resting zone and viewpoint for the city's largest monument - the Stone Bridge from the 13th century, which is the oldest in the Czech Republic. The historic atmosphere is further enhanced by lanterns and so-called Křižík-type lamps in close proximity to the electric plant, which is a technical monument. "We wanted to create a dignified connection around the historic core of the city," explained architect Kateřina Vávrová, who participated in the project.
    From the electric plant, another part connects to the 220-meter-long promenade, which the city had previously restored. People can access the restored castle moat through the Katovská Gate and can walk up to Bakaláři, which are set to be repaired probably in the spring of next year. The reconstruction of the area was delayed by more than three years due to protests against the felling of chestnut trees. The Supreme Administrative Court ultimately ruled in favor of the city, which cut down the trees last week. "I did not understand their activity. The chestnuts were rotten, posed a danger to people, and we want to plant new trees in their place that will be more resilient," noted Vávrová.
    The repair of the historic malt house and the promenade by the Otava River in Písek has been delayed due to an archaeological survey and structural modifications. Builders were scheduled to complete the entire project by the end of this year, so the city would receive a promised 75% grant from the European Union. However, the city will not lose the grant. The Ministry for Regional Development approved an extension until the end of April 2008 for the completion of the project. "We have planned the ceremonial completion of the project for April 24 and 25, when we are preparing a grand celebration," Kadlčáková said.
    In the premises of the malt house, a Center for Illustration Písek, abbreviated C.I.Písek, is currently being established. The museum in the malt house, which is a technical cultural monument, will showcase a cross-section of the artistic work of Czech illustrators of children's and youth books, as well as possibly foreign authors. The center will offer 1,979 square meters of new exhibition space and a multifunctional studio. The courtyard of the malt house will allow for the organization of theater performances, concerts, and art workshops.
    The entire project for the regeneration of the historic core of Písek on the banks of the Otava River between the Stone Bridge and the Putim Gate will restore a third of the historical district of Písek and is expected to increase tourism in the city. A new right bank promenade is being created, along with a passage to the square, and the main tourist attraction will be the Center for Illustration Písek in the renovated municipal malt house.