Students of the University of Ostrava want to save the church in Hrušov

Ostrava - Students of Ostrava University want to save the crumbling Neo-Gothic Church of St. Francis and Victor in Ostrava-Hrušov. They are preparing a fundraising event around the church monument. The proceeds will go towards the repair of the building damaged by subsidence and flooding. Miriam Prokešová, the main initiator of the event, told ČTK today.
    "The Neo-Gothic church from the late 19th century was built according to the design of the Vienna architects Ferstel and Schweda. It still has its original inventory, which is a remarkable example of carving art," she stated, adding that it is the last memento of the once grand town on the right bank of the Odra River.
    The building has been gradually deteriorating in recent years. It has been damaged by emissions from nearby industrial plants, subsidence, and especially by the devastating flood in 1997. At that time, the water reached up to 3.5 meters in Hrušov.
    "In recent years, the brick tower has started to collapse, the cross on the tower has completely rusted, the stained glass windows have cracked, and the pavement in front of the church is in a dilapidated state. The organ also requires repair," Prokešová enumerated.
    Therefore, students from the university in Ostrava have prepared a fundraising event for September 4 called Nostra beata vita - Our Happy Life. Attendees can look forward to two historical fencing groups, and they can also take a look at a display of period clothing. The rich program will be enhanced by singing, including folk songs. There will also be a trombone quartet. The benefit will also feature an exhibition of jewelry and paintings, which will be offered at auction. The event will take place in the immediate vicinity of the church and will start at 4:00 PM.
    However, the students of Ostrava are not the only ones concerned about the fate of the church. There is already a civic association called the Society for the Heritage Restoration of the Hrušov Church, and last year they organized a charity concert by the local singer Marie Rottrová.