Stará radnice (Český Brod) Town hall

The Old Town Hall in Český Broda, located on the Square of Arnošt of Pardubice, is a monument protected Gothic building with subsequent reconstruction. This historic building, which boasts a single-storey structure and the main facade towards the southwest, is important not only by its architecture, but also by its rich history. Its oldest part dates from 1379- 1396, which makes it one of the oldest town hall buildings in the Czech Republic.

The creation of the Old Town Hall is linked to the time when the Czech Kingdom was undergoing political and religious changes. The oldest part of the building was probably founded under the Prague Archbishop John of Jenštejn, which suggests its importance for local government and the religious sphere. This building served as the seat of the highest authority of the city administration, which underlines its central role in the life of the Czech Brod people.

The town hall is mainly a Gothic building that has undergone several phases of reconstruction. After the initial Gothic foundation, the Renaissance reconstruction took place in 1547. The Thirty Years' War had a devastating impact on the region, and in 1639 the city was completely destroyed by the Swedes. After three years of desolation, the town hall was restored, probably already in the Baroque style. Another fire in 1739 led to its top Baroque reconstruction between 1741 and 1743.

The building boasts a one-story construction with a nine-axis front. The entrance portal allows access to the central corridor, which was ambushed and ended with a massive three-part staircase to the floor. On the piedestal is a statue of the mythological Gryf by architect and sculptor Jan Koula from 1884, which adds artistic value to its historical significance. Two rooms in the facade are arched with vaulted vaults with sections, while the storey spaces are mostly flat-ceiling.

The ownership and administration of the city hall have changed over the years. The pharmacy U Jitřenky was located in the building from 1800 to 1837, indicating its multifunctional use. Since 1850, the district court has based c. K., and since 1868, the county government in the town hall, highlighting its administrative role.

Key events in City Hall history include not only its reconstruction, but also its adaptation to cultural purposes. Since 1960, the building has been used as a room for the City Library, Information Centre, Shatlava Gallery and CuKratkov Café. Part of the historical underground is accessible to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich past.

Today, the Old Town Hall in Český Broda is not only a protected object, but also a living cultural centre. Its historical architecture and rich history make it an attractive destination for tourists and locals. Visiting this town hall offers a unique view of the past of Český Brod and its development, which makes it not only a monument but also a living witness to history.