A monument commemorating the bravery and enduring legacy of General Karel Kutlvašr is set to grace the compound of the former Nuselský Brewery in Prague 4, an upcoming urban district poised for development. Penta Real Estate, the driving force behind this endeavor, has launched an art competition to select the most fitting design for the monument. An esteemed panel of experts will adjudicate the submissions, with the winning design slated to be announced by the end of June this year.

General Kutlvašr, a revered figure in Czech history, distinguished himself as a valiant officer in the Czechoslovak Legions in Russia and later rose to prominence as the commander of the Prague Uprising. Following the events of February 1948, he fell victim to the communist regime, enduring imprisonment until his release under an amnesty in 1960. In the twilight of his life, General Kutlvašr found solace as a guard and night doorman at the Nuselský Brewery.

Recognized as a pivotal figure in shaping the Czech Republic’s freedom, General Kutlvašr’s name is to be immortalized through this monument. David Musil, Deputy CEO of Penta Real Estate, emphasizes the importance of preserving Kutlvašr’s memory, drawing parallels with recent street namings honoring hockey players incarcerated during the communist era.

The competition will unfold in two stages, with applicants required to submit their concepts by April 18th. Following initial evaluations, up to seven designs will be shortlisted for further refinement into detailed proposals. The unveiling of the monument is anticipated to take place at the central square intersecting the main pedestrian routes in the first quarter of next year.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to integrating art into urban development projects, with investments in cultural enrichment and artistic expression set to become integral components of future ventures. By fostering collaboration with esteemed artists from the Czech Republic and beyond, Penta Real Estate aims to elevate the aesthetic and cultural landscape while revitalizing historical spaces.

Upon completion, the burgeoning urban district will offer a blend of modern residential buildings and civic amenities housed within the historic brewery structures, providing a vibrant and dynamic environment for residents and visitors alike.

Article by Prague Forum