Site survey for the future Janáček Cultural Center

Brno - Archaeologists have discovered the foundations of former city barracks, about 20 historical coins, and also the first medieval pilgrim medallion during their research between Veselá and Besední streets in the center of Brno. They are investigating the site where the Janáček Cultural Center with a modern concert hall is to be built. Below it will be a parking garage. In a deeper layer, scientists should encounter the foundations of three to five medieval burgher houses. Antonín Zůbek, the head of the research, said this to ČTK today.
    "This is one of the largest studies in the center of Brno on former burgher plots. After the completion of this rescue research, we will know the architectural development of this area," he stated. In addition to the foundations of buildings or the Brno fortifications, archaeologists have found thousands of small items. These are primarily fragments of ceramics and bones from the kitchen. The research could last about half a year.
    Everything suggests that in the medieval period, there were three to five burgher houses located between the current Veselá and Besední streets. In the early 18th century, part of them was demolished and part incorporated into the city barracks. The barracks served their purpose until the early 20th century. In some sections, stone or brick pavement has been preserved. Only after investigating the remnants of the barracks will these foundations be removed, allowing archaeologists to access the medieval layer.
    The most interesting find so far is the so-called pilgrim medallion. It was used by pilgrims heading to Rome or the Spanish Santiago de Compostela between the 13th and 16th centuries. Pilgrims wore it pinned to their clothing for protection. The medallion is a metal casting depicting the Virgin Mary. It is the first medallion found in the city; similar ones have already been discovered in Prague and Olomouc.
    The idea of establishing the Janáček Cultural Center in Brno has been around for a long time. However, no one has moved forward with the construction due to a lack of funds. The center has two parts - an underground section with garages and an above-ground section with a cultural hall. It is still unclear where the city will obtain the funds for the Janáček Cultural Center. The project is expected to cost more than half a billion crowns.