In this section, you can learn in detail not only about the state of disrepair of both grottoes, but also about all the work that followed the discovery of the amethysts and had to be carried out before the discovery was made public. The events are arranged in chronological order, and you will learn about all the risks and damage that the Archbishopric of Olomouc must gradually resolve in order to ensure the stability of the space, slow down the degradation process, and preserve the grottos for future generations.
State of Disrepair
Discovery of Amethysts
In early January 2024, extensive amethyst decorations were discovered in the Apollo’s and Mining Grottoes of the Archbishop’s Chateau in Kroměříž. This discovery places the grottoes on a European level in terms of significance.
Mineralogical and Rock Analysis
The mineralogical and rock analysis was carried out in collaboration with a leading Czech expert, gemologist RNDr. Radek Hanus, Ph.D., EurGeol.
3D Documentation of the Sala Terrena and Grottoes
The documentation was made by means of 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry in high resolution to accurately record the current state.
Memorandum of Cooperation Between AO and UP
On 13 August 2024, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the Archbishopric of Olomouc and Palacký University Olomouc.
Archival and Art Historical Research
Archival and art historical research for the Archbishopric of Olomouc is conducted in collaboration with Palacký University Olomouc by doc. PhDr. Jana Zapletalová, Ph.D., Head of the Department of Art History at Palacký University Olomouc.
Security Measures
As part of the security measures, floor protection and grotto viewing platforms were installed, as well as a camera system and an electronic security system.
X-Ray Analysis of Stucco Decorations in the Grottos
An X-ray analysis was necessary to determine the condition of the stucco decorations and the fittings inside the stucco material.
Structural Analysis of the Grotto Decorations
An expert assessment of the stucco decorations’ structural integrity in the grottoes showed that the grottoes are in a state of disrepair, primarily due to corroded metal fittings inside the stucco decorations.
Consultations with Czech and Foreign Specialists
Thanks to our collaboration with Palacký University Olomouc and doc. Jana Zapletalová, we were able to arrange consultations with leading Czech and foreign experts.
Introduction of a Controlled Climate Regime
In order to slow down corrosion, it was necessary to start dehumidifying the sala terrena and grottoes spaces and implement a climate monitoring regime.
