Another part of the revitalization of Klementinum is in preparation, heritage protectors are satisfied

Prague - The reconstruction of the western wing of the Prague Clementinum will begin in the spring as the second phase of the restoration of this heritage-protected complex, which houses the National Library (NK). The revitalization of the Clementinum, which started two years ago, is being carried out while the library is in operation and without major restrictions on services to readers. So far, restorers are satisfied with the repairs.
    "The first phase of revitalization is completed. Currently, a tender is underway for the contractor of the second phase. Its actual realization will likely start in April," said NK spokeswoman Irena Maňáková to ČTK.
    The five-year revitalization plan is divided into five phases. According to NK director Tomáš Böhm, the most challenging will be the third phase, during which the internal historic spaces, reading rooms, and halls will be reconstructed.
    All repairs are being conducted while the library is in operation, and readers and researchers may encounter masons in the courtyard and some parts of the Clementinum. Reading rooms and loan services are functioning, although it might sometimes be more difficult to obtain certain books. According to Maňáková, some parts of the collections are temporarily inaccessible due to elevator reconstruction. The least borrowed signatures have been placed in inaccessible areas, and readers are informed about the restrictions, for example, on the library's website.
    In the spring, the reconstruction of the western wing along Křižovnická Street and three buildings around the Student Courtyard should begin. The completion of this phase of revitalization also depends on the construction of the depository in Hostivař, as a considerable amount of books will be moved from the Clementinum. According to Maňáková, it is realistic that the construction will be completed on time, that is, by the end of the year.
    Restorers are also satisfied with the repairs so far. "It's always about compromise. But we are satisfied with the result," evaluated the first part of the repairs Milan Šindler from the National Heritage Institute.
    In the western wing, which is to be repaired now, restorers, for example, insist on preserving the paintings, stucco decorations, and the lighting system. Modern dormers are also to be removed from the Baroque building. "There will be a change in the appearance of the windows on the first floor facing Křižovnická Street. After the façade is repaired, the color will change, and above all, the façade will be clean. The wall color will only be revealed after an examination," Šindler stated.
    The estimated cost for the second phase of revitalization is 287 million crowns; the final price will only be clear after selecting a general contractor. The total costs for the reconstruction of the former Jesuit college, one of the largest architectural complexes in Prague, are estimated at 1.9 billion crowns. The depositories in Hostivař are expected to cost one billion. Through the revitalization of the Baroque complex and the completion of the depository, NK aims to secure capacity for its collections for the next 50 to 60 years by 2015.