The Zlín Region plans to modernize the observatory in Valašské Meziříčí

Academic architect Zdeněk Plesník: Observatory in Valašské Meziříčí, 1955

Zlín - The Zlín Region intends to modernize the observatory in Valašské Meziříčí. It plans to renovate the monument-protected main building and build specialized classrooms equipped with technology for processing data obtained from astronomical observations. The classroom is part of a joint project with the Kysucká Observatory in Kysucké Nové Mesto, Slovakia. The total costs amount to more than 7.5 million crowns, said the governor Stanislav Mišák (ČSSD) to journalists.
     According to him, water is leaking into the building, which devalues it. Craftsmen will among other things replace the fillings of selected glazed areas, the roof coverings, and insulate the roof structure including the surrounding walls of the lecture hall extension. "New rainwater drains will also be built and part of the facade will be repaired," Mišák described.
     The joint project with the Slovak partner involves the creation of an educational and learning park with models of the solar system, sundials, and a cross-section of the Earth, modernization of the outdated exhibition in the hall of the central building of the observatory, where new light and graphic panels including television and computer technology are to be purchased. There is also a plan to purchase two portable binocular telescopes. The project is conditional on obtaining subsidies from the Cross-Border Cooperation Program CZ - SK.
     In addition to the observatory, the Zlín Region council also approved the reconstruction of the Malenovice Castle, which is used by the Museum of South-East Moravia in Zlín. This will include the replacement of the roof in the eastern part of the castle, static security of the castle chapel along with restoration works, replacement of the ceiling in the former gamekeeper's lodge, adjustments to the space in front of the castle, and the acquisition of new furnishings. Work is set to begin in December and will cost 6.6 million crowns.