The Heritage Institute estimates revenues to be 30 million CZK lower by mid-April

Prague - The National Heritage Institute (NPÚ) has reported a drop in revenue of 12 million crowns due to closed monuments in mid-March, and by mid-April, the decline could exceed 30 million crowns. CTK was informed today by NPÚ spokesperson Jana Hartmanová. If government measures declared as a prevention against the spread of coronavirus last until the end of April, state heritage officials expect a drop of up to 55 million crowns. Last year, NPÚ's revenue was 620 million crowns. Due to the losses, the heritage institute is already preparing austerity measures.

"For example, we are postponing the installation of payment terminals in the castle park in Lednice, we will limit publishing activities, publications will mainly be released electronically, and we are reducing the purchase of services and materials," stated NPÚ on the website.

Already agreed leases of spaces at heritage sites for weddings will not be canceled, provided that the total number of people, including NPÚ staff present, does not exceed 30. Film shoots are being canceled.

With an annual state grant of approximately one billion crowns, NPÚ is one of the three most funded contribution organizations of the Ministry of Culture, along with the National Theatre and the National Museum. However, it is largely self-sufficient due to high attendance and the popularity of renting its facilities. For several consecutive years, state castles and chateaux attract over five million visitors per year.

In the fight against coronavirus, state heritage sites with year-round operations were closed on March 10, and the start of the main visitor season has been postponed indefinitely by NPÚ management. Lectures, conferences, seminars, discussions, and educational activities have also been canceled.

Parks and gardens near heritage sites managed by NPÚ remain open for the time being.

Money for already purchased online tickets will be refunded. Online ticket sales are suspended until further notice, and email and telephone reservations cannot be made either.

Employees at heritage sites are engaged in restoring furnishings, preparing tour routes, or carrying out maintenance work in parks and gardens. With regard to the measures taken, agreements with seasonal workers who were supposed to work as guides or cashiers have been canceled.