Základní škola Na Ostrově School building

Základní škola Na Ostrově, formerly known as Masaryk Elementary School, is a historic monument located in Jaroměř, specifically on the site of the Isle of Masaryk orchards. This Neo-Renaissance building was built in 1884-1885 according to the design of architect Arnošt Jenšovský and is today protected as a cultural monument. At the time of its creation, it was one of the most important school buildings in northeast Bohemia, which reflects its architectural and historical value.

The history of the Elementary School Na Ostrov dates back to 1876, when the first boys' school was founded in Jaroměř. It was originally based in a building on the square by the church, but because of the growing number of pupils it became crowded and gradually began to face lack of space. Teachers complained about street noise and dust, which led to renting private space for school teaching. The town council decided to build a new school headquarters, a so-called municipal house, on the location of the waterlogged island opposite the square. After long negotiations, the land was purchased for 17600 gold and in 1884 the construction was opened by construction entrepreneurs Jan Čermák and Emil Prükner. The opening ceremony took place on 6 September 1885.

Architecturally Základní škola Na Ostrově is a leader of the Neo-Renaissance style, which was a popular architectural direction at the time. The building was surrounded by an extensive park named Masaryk orchard, which was created according to the design of Hans Liehm between 1885 and 1886. Originally, not only the boys' school, but also the municipal museum with exhibitions in the ground floor rooms and the General Craft School on the second floor. This institution became known for its professional teachers, including František Kupka, one of the most important Czech painters.

The building faced many challenges during its history. It was repeatedly affected by the floods of the Elbe River, the first in 1897, when the rooms and the school garden were damaged. During the First World War, the building was used by an army of Hungarian nationality, which led to a reduction in the faculty. During World War II it was occupied by German soldiers who gradually took over the building and moved the school classes to other areas.

After the war the situation improved and in 1948 was transformed into an eight-year high school. In 1971 the general repair of the building started, which lasted for 13 years and included modernization of the interior and facade. In 1993, the first computer room was launched and two years later Internet access was provided.

Today, Základní škola Na Ostrově is not only a monument to architecture, but also a witness to the rich history of the region's education and cultural development. Its Neo-Renaissance style and historical context make it an interesting destination for visitors who want to know more about the past of Jaroměř and surrounding areas. Visiting this monument is an opportunity to appreciate not only its architectural beauty, but also the deep roots of the educational tradition that has evolved here for over a century.