In the monastery in Plasy, there should be a park like in the time of Metternich

Plasy - The space in the middle of the historical complex of the former Cistercian monastery in Plasy will regain the form it had during the time of Chancellor Metternich, who purchased the estate in 1826. The project, for which the Plasy municipality received a subsidy of 11.5 million crowns, includes, among other things, the modification of pathways, the landscaping of green areas, and the restoration of fountains and sculptures in the area. The inspiration comes from historical drawings and old documents, said Plasy mayor Zdeněk Hanzlíček to ČTK.
    "The city will ensure a complete modification of the space between the brewery and the outbuildings, and the convent and the prelature," he stated.
    According to the mayor, traditional public space features, namely fountains and sculptures, have been suppressed by inappropriate modifications, there are completely missing resting places, and the landscaping in the park needs attention. "In the first phase, which we are doing this year, 54 overgrown trees were cut down. There was a risk of them falling, the decision to cut them down was made by heritage conservationists, the environment, and other relevant parties," said the mayor. The greenery in the area was neglected, many trees had two crowns, and some trunks were leaning.
    The second phase will take place in 2014, and the city is currently selecting a contractor. "A comprehensive modification is planned, there will be pathways, gravel surfaces, landscaping, and the reconstruction of two fountains including technology," said the mayor. The statue of Saint Bernard, one of the most beloved saints of the Cistercian order, should also be restored.
    The city, heritage conservationists, and the technical museum have access to historical drawings and documentation. Period graphic sheets and later photographs from the turn of the century document the gradual use of English-style garden elements after the arrival of Metternich, with avenues, hedges, and flower beds being visible in the area. After the state expropriated the monastery, the entire complex fell into decline, and the English park gradually disappeared.
    The city of Plasy received 11.5 million crowns from the ROP for the project named "Paths through the Monastery - Trails of Discovery,” with the remaining amount of 17.5 million crowns being covered by its own funds. The completion of the project is planned for the end of October 2014.