If any building in Cracow looks like it's in good shape then it is the Sukiennice. This glorious edifice, which sweeps across Europe's largest medieval square like a great sleigh, has a marked air of invincibility about it. But appearances are deceptive. Down in the cellars the installations are 'in a tragic state', according to Tadeusz Murzyn, Director of the Association for Restoration of Historic Monuments in Cracow.
With the intention of steering off future problems, a 6 million zloty restoration project has been earmarked for the structure. If all goes to plan, the project will last some three years.
News of the plans has already prompted panic amongst the stall-keepers who work within the ancient Cloth Hall. Over 40 wooden stalls operate within the structure and business has flourished in the wake of Cracow's tourist boom.
The stalls will be moved out, beginning with the western aisle, whilst the museum on the first floor will be closed to install new ventilation systems.
The cellars themselves require a huge amount of work. Long-term plans include the creation of a subterranean branch of the National Museum, whilst some cellars will be opened up for commercial use. Witnesses say that rats are the current kings of the Cloth Hall cellars. Meanwhile, dead rodents have been mysteriously turning up in the stalls of those traders who have avoided being kicked out in the first wave of renovation. It looks like tricky times are ahead.
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