Znojmo wants to declare the monastery in Louka a national cultural monument

Znojmo - Znojmo will request the declaration of the monastery in Louka as a national cultural monument, the councilors agreed. The decision will be made by the Ministry of Culture. If it agrees, the city will have a better position for obtaining grants for the renovation of the historic building, said Mayor Vlastimil Gabrhel (ČSSD) in a press release.
    "Multi-source funding for repairs is essential, and it would be easier for us to apply for grants from national and European programs," Gabrhel said. The former Premonstratensian monastery is one of Znojmo's landmarks, but it is significantly neglected. The city is gradually trying to renovate the large complex it acquired five years ago free of charge from the state. Typically, it involves addressing emergency conditions. "It would be possible to hold various cultural events here, and it could also attract tourists," Gabrhel stated.
    The former riding school underwent a complete reconstruction, where a private guesthouse is set to open in the fall, and the church is also functional. Part of the complex is used by the winery Znovín Znojmo.
    The monastery was founded in the early Middle Ages, established in 1190 by Czech Prince Conrad II Otto and his mother Maria. During the Hussite Wars, it was plundered by troops, and it underwent significant reconstruction in the 18th century, which was not completed. The monastery was abolished in 1784 by Emperor Joseph II's reforms. Afterwards, a tobacco processing factory operated there, followed by a military academy, and it served as a barracks until 1993.