In Brno, a monument to the apostles Cyril and Methodius has been created

Photo: Jan Dobrovolný

Brno - Brno now has a memorial to the Moravian spiritual patrons, Saints Cyril and Methodius. It has been built at the cathedral on Petrov. The modern sculpture captures two standing figures, symbolizing the apostles, with gaps in it shaped like a double-armed cross allowing light to shine through. This was stated by the spokesperson for the Brno bishopric, Martina Jandlová.
    The authors of the memorial, which is about 2.5 meters tall, are sculptor Vladimír Matoušek and architect Radim Horák. The light passing through the sculpture symbolizes that the brothers from Thessaloniki brought the light of faith and knowledge to the inhabitants of Great Moravia in their hearts, Jandlová stated.
    The memorial was created in connection with this year's 1150th anniversary of the arrival of Cyril and Methodius to the Great Moravian Empire. The idea for its establishment came from Brno Bishop Vojtěch Cikrle, who wanted the Moravian metropolis to have a sculpture of its spiritual patrons. The space near Brno's dominant feature, Petrov, was chosen for it.
    The city invested 13 million crowns in its beautification last year. Brno Mayor Roman Onderka (ČSSD) told ČTK that the new sculpture also symbolizes the rich history of Moravia. He hopes that the memorial on Petrov will attract not only believers but also tourists.
    The creation of the sculpture cost the bishopric two million crowns. Part of the funds is being sought through a public collection for the project.
    This year's 1150th anniversary of the apostles' arrival is associated with numerous cultural events. It will culminate on July 5 with a service at Velehrad. In commemoration of the apostles and the history of Moravia, over 600 town halls will display the historical Moravian flag on this day.
    Sculptures of the apostles are being created in several locations. Jaroslav Krábek, the chairman of the Moravian National Community association, which promotes Moravian traditions and history, welcomes its establishment in Brno. According to him, the city also deserves an equestrian statue of the Moravian margrave Jošt of Luxembourg, which has been discussed for years.