The restored synagogue in the town of Čkyně in southern Bohemia is in the running for the “Monument 2013” national monuments restoration prize organized by the Association of Historical Settlements in Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia (SHSČMS) in collaboration with the Ministry for Regional Development.
As we reported last fall, the synagogue in Čkyně was rededicated in October after a more than 20-year restoration process. Built in 1828, the synagogue is the only surviving synagogue building in the Prachatice district and is one of the few surviving village synagogues in the Czech Republic. It was used for regular services until 1895 and then occasionally until World War I.
The prize will be awarded for the best project and implementation of the renovation in 2013 of an immovable cultural monument, building or group of buildings that have significant heritage, architectural and urban values and carry the specific nature of the environment.
The competition nominees include the regional winners from 13 Czech counties — the Čkyně synagogue, representing southern Bohemia, is the only synagogue among them. (Applications to the competition came from 44 sites.)
The prize consists of a permanent plaque with the inscription “2013 Monument” and an award of 100 000 Czech crowns (about €4,000). The award is to be presented in April.
See more information about the prize