Plzeň unveiled new fountains in the square

Plzeň - This evening, Plzeň celebrated the ceremonial introduction of three new landmarks in its square with classical ballet, modern dance, and a street dance performance themed around water. The gilded modern fountains, designed by Prague architect Ondřej Císler, are inspired by motifs from the historical city emblem. They occupy three open corners of the square, while a plague column occupies the fourth corner. Thousands of people watched and applauded the launch.
    However, the modern work has been stirring emotions in Plzeň for several years and has divided the public into two camps. Some believe it is unsuitable for the historical square, while others highlight the architectural value of the work. The acquisition of the fountains cost the city administration 26.6 million crowns.
    Plzeň's journey to the new fountains was not easy. Císler's design was chosen by a professional jury in an architectural competition back in 2005 from 30 submitted proposals. However, politicians did not approve the fountains at that time, and consent for their construction was granted only after adjustments to size, shape, and surface in 2007.
    The spouts, named after motifs from the city emblem: Angel, Camel, and Greyhound, are bronze castings, with the tallest measuring up to four meters. They are complemented by monolithic vessels made of black granite specially brought in from China. In addition to heraldic figures, the fountains also evoke the tradition of monumental castings from Škoda Works, utilizing black and gold colors that also appear on the Marian plague column.
    The actual gilding of the metal profiles took nine months, including a technological break. Seven colors of gold leaf were used during the process. Approximately 720 grams of gold were consumed for the gilding of all three spouts, covering an area of about 70 square meters. The gold leaf creates color effects that will change with the developing patina.
    "The fountains are a new, very distinctive element of the city center. The water falling from the spouts will be complemented by lights placed in the vessels under protective grids, under the water, which should enhance the effect of the falling water during nighttime. The fountains will also be illuminated from the outside with lighting in the pavement," described the technical deputy to the mayor, Petr Rund (ODS). Water circulates in a closed circuit, with changes planned five times per season.
    Although the fountains evoke mixed reactions, Císler is satisfied. According to him, the fountains are now entering a sensitive childhood phase, during which they will need protection, correction of potential deficiencies, and time for people to get used to them. "A newly created building or a work of art in a public space always first integrates into its context, adapts to it, and reveals its nature and impact. I hope the fountains will be a source of pleasure and inspiration for Plzeň for a long time and serve as a stimulus for reflection. I hope they will ultimately become a symbol of tolerance for those who do not entirely appreciate their expression," added the architect.