Ostrava‘s Historic ‘Spolek Potkani’ Pub Falls into Disrepair,City Considers Purchase
Ostrava,Czech Republic – A beloved Ostrava pub with ties to Czech actors and musicians,known locally as “Spolek Potkani” (The Rat Society),has deteriorated into a state of disrepair,now reportedly inhabited primarily by rodents. The city of Ostrava is poised to discuss the purchase of the property for just over nine million Czech crowns (approximately $400,000 USD) at its December council meeting.
The pub, historically frequented by figures like actor Josef Čepek and musician Jan pastrňák, has become a symbol of neglect in the city.Its dilapidated condition and overgrown garden have sparked concern among residents and prompted the city to consider acquiring the building. The potential purchase comes after a previous attempt at reconstruction, spearheaded by Lukáš Chlebovský, fell through due to a series of complications.
According to Novinky, Chlebovský encountered significant issues with the building, including a wood-rotting fungus and disputes with neighbors regarding planned extensions. He declined to comment on the project’s failure. The city hopes to address the building’s condition and possibly restore it,though future plans remain unclear pending the council’s decision. The current state of the property, as documented by Novinky photographer Denisa Doležalová, shows a building largely abandoned, with only rats visible within its walls and grounds.
