IEDA board awards $42,000 CAT grant to Nation Czech and Slovak Museum & Library

Grant will help improve and renovate the Orloj Clocktower

National Czech and Slovak Museum

The Iowa Economic Development Authority has awarded a $42,500 Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grant to the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library.

The Cedar Rapids museum plans to use the grant to renovate and improve its Orloj Clocktower, which was unveiled Sept. 27 before a large crowd of community members and foreign dignitaries, most notably the presidents of both the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Petr Pavel and Peter Pellegrini.

The orloj, also known as an astronomical clock, is closely modeled after the famous one in Prague. According to a release, the project will add unique features that highlight Czech composers and redevelop the plaza around the clocktower, in addition to incorporating repairs and finishes.

At the clocktower’s dedication, Slovak president Pellegrini said he was “grateful and touched that Slovakia continues to form an important part of your story and your identity,” citing the work of sculptor Andrej Haršány, who used white oak from near his home in Slovakia to create the clock tower’s figurines. “At this special moment I am proud that Slovakia has a share in this beautiful work of art.”

The total project cost is $685,000.