The results of the two-year project were presented at a February press conference in Prague. Norwegian Ambassador Jens Eikaas said that he was pleased that Norway had been able to make a substantial contribution to the financing of the project.
Budgetary constraints
Constraints in the state budget meant that funding was only available for three facilities rather than the whole project as originally intended. The grant from Norway helped to cover the shortfall.
Preventing theft
Development of the new modern security system started 2002. Existing systems have been upgraded and integrated, including the alarm system, fire protection system, and a comprehensive graphic monitoring system.
All 8 buildings of the National Gallery, including the courtyards and gardens, are now connected to a central security system, ensuring that the pictures in the collection remain safe for present and future generations to enjoy.
The National Gallery experienced its most serious robbery in 1991, when four Picasso paintings worth almost €70 million were stolen from the Sternberg Palace. Although the thieves were caught and the paintings retrieved, this highlighted the need for a complete overhaul of the system. “This could never happen now,” says Director of the Museum Milan Knizak.
Photo: National Gallery in Prague