<p>Příspěvkové organizace v kultuře připravují projekty za miliardy korun</p> translates to <p>Subsidized cultural organizations are preparing projects worth billions of crowns</p>

Prague - The new buildings planned by the contributory organizations of the Ministry of Culture represent projects worth billions of crowns. Prices have risen sharply from initial estimates in 2019. The depository of the National Gallery Prague (NGP) in Jinonice is expected to cost 2.19 billion crowns. The project of the Central European Forum of the Museum of Art Olomouc (MUO) is estimated at more than 1.19 billion crowns. The National Library (NK) in Hostivař, Prague, is constructing the final part of its depository for 770 million crowns. These projects are among the priority investments of the Ministry of Culture, as reported by Minister Martin Baxa (ODS).

According to the gallery's director, Alicja Knastová, the NGP depository in Jinonice would represent a systematic solution for the care of collections. The gallery currently holds collections in multiple locations across Prague, and it is important to find a place for sculptures and paintings stored in the Veletržní Palace, which, according to earlier statements, needs reconstruction.

The depository planned in Prague 13, next to the Butovice shopping gallery, is to be built in two phases. This year, the NGP aims to obtain a building permit and start the contractor selection process.

If the first of the two planned buildings can be constructed, the NGP would gain double the current storage space, about 18,000 square meters. The second phase represents an additional 12,100 square meters of space. According to the director, the construction of the first phase could be completed by 2028, after which a trial operation lasting one year should follow before valuable artworks can be moved. "The key moment is the relocation and storage of collections," said Knastová.

The National Library is building its depository in Hostivař, which, according to its director Tomáš Foltýn, should be completed next year. The building has been designed primarily as functional, with 100% air exchange and an efficient fire protection system. In Hostivař, the NK plans to store the valuable National Conservation Fund with links to conservation and restoration workshops and a reading room for large-format documents.

"We should certify the building in the first quarter of 2026; this year we will announce a public contract for the furnishings," Foltýn stated. Books are expected to be moved to the depository in the first half of next year. This could be followed by the reconstruction of Klementinum in the Old Town, where the books are currently stored, and a larger opening to the public.

For almost two decades, the Museum of Art Olomouc has been preparing the project for the Central European Forum. According to director Ondřej Zatloukal, the design by architect Jan Šépka should rise on five medieval plots in the center of Olomouc. The MUO currently estimates construction costs at more than 1.19 billion crowns including VAT. The project is intended to support collaboration with partners from Central Europe, the director stated. This year, a contractor for the forum is expected to be chosen, and implementation could begin next year.