Polička is commencing the modernization of the square, with completion planned for 2026

Polička – In Polička in the Svitavy region, the modernization of Bohuslav Martinů Square will soon begin, where the composer's childhood room is located in the Church of St. Jacob. The company will take over the construction site on April 1, and the first stage will be completed by June. This will be followed by further stages that will last until the end of the summer holidays in 2026. The project also includes a stream that recalls the Opening of Wells, Martinů's famous cantata, as stated in a press release by the head of the department of urban planning, development, and the environment, Marta Mastná.

"It took a long five years from the idea to its actual realization. The initial thought of renewing this area was born during the completion of the complete reconstruction of the neo-Gothic Church of St. Jacob, a national cultural monument. At that time, the question arose of how to suitably and, above all, respectfully adjust the square and the entire adjacent area," said Mastná.

Polička approached architect Přemysl Kokeš, who had already designed revitalizations of other parts of the historic center. His proposal not only involves the transformation of surfaces but also features atypical street furniture, a fountain, underground rainwater tanks, and tree planting. A total of 26 trees are to be planted in the square and seven more in Riegerova Street.

"From the very beginning, it was clear that this would not just be a visual transformation of surfaces and the addition of greenery. Just like with previous reconstructions of the square and individual streets, the modifications also include a complete replacement of engineering networks," noted Mastná. This is preceded by an archaeological survey, as the church is a national cultural monument, she added.

The architect is collaborating with Zuzana Ambrožová, and both reference the composer Bohuslav Martinů in their design. He will be represented by a statue of a small boy running home with his violin, to the room in the church tower. Water from the fountain is intended to flow in a stream all the way to Riegerova Street, reminiscent of the Opening of Wells, the composer's famous work.

According to Mastná, during preparations, costs increased dramatically. The revitalization will cost 47 million crowns, with a grant of 19 million crowns contributed to the city. In the past, the city postponed the project due to high costs. The work will last until the end of August 2026, and pedestrians and motorists will have to expect restrictions and closures.