It had already been approved earlier at the December meetings of the assemblies of the Hradec Králové Region and the City of Hradec Králové. This memorandum will form the basis for preparing the programme and budget of the series of commemorative events dedicated to this crucial battle in the history of the 19th century. The scope of the events in 2016 should follow the previous round anniversaries organized in 1996 and 2006, when the Guard of the City of Hradec Králové was traditionally the main organizer. The 150th anniversary of the battle will thus also be the culmination of the Königgrätz 1866 memorial events project organized by the Guard since 1992.
Let us recall that it was the largest battle in the history of Bohemia and Moravia and at the same time the last major cavalry battle in European history. That is also why it is clear that the commemorative events will be conceived on a grand
and dignified scale and with the participation of many cooperating institutions.
'The annual commemoration of the anniversary of the Battle of Hradec Králové is the largest event of its kind in the Hradec Králové Region and one of the largest in the entire country. Most of the fighting of the Austro-Prussian War took place in the territory of today's Hradec Králové Region and is inseparably linked with this region. We understand these circumstances as an obligation towards the past, but thanks to tourism also as a great opportunity for the future. The importance of this economic sector is constantly growing. In the case of the 150th anniversary of these historical events, we expect truly enormous public interest, not only from the Czech public but also from abroad,' said Lubomír Franc, Governor of the Hradec Králové Region.
'In the immediate vicinity of our city, the largest field battle on the territory of the Czech lands took place, associated with massacre and immense human suffering. It was precisely this battle within the Austro-Prussian War that influenced subsequent development throughout Europe. All the more reason for us to remember this anniversary and do everything possible to ensure that
such things never happen again in the future. It is good that today we meet on the battlefield no longer as opponents, but as friends,' says Zdeněk Fink, Mayor of the City of Hradec Králové.
'We are aware of the great significance not only of the battle itself for the history of Europe, but also of the importance of the 150th anniversary for the Hradec Králové region. We are preparing a number of events that will recall not only historical events,
but will also provide opportunities for meetings of important figures from cultural, professional and social life. We are also pleased that all involved entities share a consensus on an intensive approach, which is important for the success of this demanding project,' noted Radek Balcárek, director of the Königgrätz 1866 project.
The commemorative events programme will offer a wide range of opportunities to remember this important event. In addition to the already traditional battle demonstrations at Chlum and in the surrounding area, there will be, for example, an international conference, concerts, exhibitions, screenings and a cultural programme in the centre of Hradec Králové. The organizers are also preparing publications, promotional materials and souvenirs. The Hradec Králové Region and the City of Hradec Králové will also prepare their own presentation materials on this theme, and the city should also dedicate its municipal ball to this anniversary. The whole series should be presented to the public by an extensive campaign.
The signing of the memorandum was also attended by Gilbert Schenkenbach, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Prague, who greeted those present and expressed the embassy's support for the organizers of the 150th anniversary series.