UNESCO is calling on Prague to preserve the railway bridge at Výtoň. The organisation also warns against the construction of new high-rise buildings in Pankrác, arguing they threaten the historic cityscape.

The World Heritage Committee has spoken out against the demolition of the historic railway bridge below Vyšehrad. In a recent decision taken at the conclusion of its 47th session in Paris, the committee called on Prague to preserve the listed structure and to renovate it at its current location.

In its published recommendation, the committee emphasises the high cultural value of the bridge: it is an integral part of Prague’s renowned river panorama and contributes significantly to the Outstanding Universal Value of the historic city centre – the reason for its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992.

The committee also criticised the planned construction of three additional high-rise buildings in Pankrác, stating that they would further exacerbate the cumulative negative impact on the cityscape. According to UNESCO, the ambitious plans for the new Vltava Philharmonic Hall in Prague 7 should also be examined more closely – the city has been asked to submit an in-depth analysis of the project’s impact on heritage conservation.

Transport Minister Kupka seeks decision before end of legislative term

For Transport Minister Martin Kupka (ODS), UNESCO’s position is a key factor in the ongoing decision-making process. According to a report by news channel ČT24, Kupka is tying his next steps to the results of the so-called HIA study (Heritage Impact Assessment), which is currently in preparation. He aims to decide before the end of the current legislative term whether the bridge should be replaced by a new structure built on the existing pillars or renovated.

The railway bridge at Výtoň dates back to 1901. Activists from the “Nebourat most” initiative blame its poor condition primarily on a lack of maintenance. Train traffic across the structure has been severely restricted for years. According to the Railway Administration, corrosion of the riveted steel structure is now so advanced that replacement is necessary. The Vyšehradský most Foundation, however, considers renovation using rivet technology to be technically feasible.

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UNESCO advises against demolition of railway bridge at Výtoň