The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing repairs for the palaces in the center of Prague

Prague - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has begun preparations for extensive renovations of two historic buildings in the center of Prague. They are looking for designers for the reconstruction of the Černín and Trautmannsdorf Palaces. Construction work costing hundreds of millions of crowns is expected to begin within three years, writes the latest issue of the weekly Euro.
    The reconstruction of the Černín Palace is planned to take place between 2010 and 2016. "Although the seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Černín Palace may appear functional and well-preserved at first glance, this is not the case. Primarily, the technical installations are nearing the end of their lifespan and will need to be completely replaced," said spokesperson Zuzana Opletalová to Euro. The estimated total costs mentioned in the investment plan amount to hundreds of millions.
    The ministry's seat consists of two main parts. The old palace was built between 1669 and 1757 and was renovated according to architect Pavel Janák's project from 1924 to 1934. The second building, known as the Janák extension, was created between 1930 and 1939. Since then, neither building has undergone any significant modifications.
    According to the weekly, the Trautmannsdorf Palace is also awaiting reconstruction costing several hundred million crowns; the Ministry of the Interior transferred it to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs based on a government resolution from last year. The property is a cultural monument. The last major modifications took place at the end of the 19th century. Opletalová claims that the condition of the building is completely inadequate.
    After the overall reconstruction, which is expected to be completed in 2011, departments of the ministry will move into the building from the property on Skokanská Street in Prague 6 - Břevnov, which, in turn, “transitioned” to the ownership of the Interior Ministry. Some employees from the Černín and Tuscan Palaces will also relocate to the palace - the capacity of these buildings is completely full, writes Euro.