The dilapidated Eliáška in Kamenický Šenov will be acquired by a foundation, which aims to save it

Kamenický Šenov - The dilapidated former chandelier factory Elias Palme, known as Eliáška, in Kamenický Šenov in the Česká Lípa region is now being purchased by the eponymous foundation. They do not wish to disclose the price. The goal is to reconstruct and save this monument, said architect Tereza Šváchová today on behalf of the Eliáška foundation. If the foundation is successful, the dilapidated factory will be transformed into a cultural and social center.

"The aim of the foundation is the gradual revitalization of the building and its transformation into a vibrant cultural and educational center focused on glass, chandeliers, and architecture," added Šváchová, who dedicated her thesis to Eliáška nine years ago.

The Art Nouveau building of the factory from the early 20th century is in a state of emergency and is listed among the most endangered monuments in the region. Two years ago, a real estate agency offered the site in deplorable condition for 3.5 million crowns. According to preservationists, the area of the former glass factory represents an architecturally and urbanistically remarkable work, which creates a landmark for the town due to its location and is an important testament to the tradition of glassmaking and industrial development in the Czech north, surpassing regional boundaries in significance.

The chandelier factory was built by Elias Palme in 1905 according to the plans of local builder Adolf Richter. Production in the 6,600 square meter facility ended more than half a century ago, after which it served as a furniture warehouse. The former factory began to deteriorate after privatization in the 1990s, frequently changing owners. The situation was further exacerbated by a fire that broke out in the façade of the building in the summer of 2023.

The Eliáška foundation was established around Peter Rath, a patriot of Šenov, an honorary citizen, and a descendant of the Lobmeyr family, who has been striving to save Eliáška since 2000. In the first phase, according to Šváchová, rescue works will be undertaken. "We have been there with experts, and nothing is irreparable," she added. The work will be divided into phases. The foundation will try to obtain public and private grants for the preservation of the site and seek additional partners who wish to be involved in the "revitalization" of Eliáška.