8. German House of Culture

8. German House of Culture

Komenského 3

The need to enliven the social and cultural life of the German city-dwellers led to the decision to establish representative premises with a multi-purpose hall for social events and theatre performances. Thanks to the generosity of the donors, both from the bourgeoisie and the general public, there were enough funds by the year 1900 to begin the construction. The winner of the competition to design the building was Georg Berger. However, only part of the jury, made up of the most respected townspeople, was pleased with his architectural proposal. He incorporated the objections into the final design, which bears little resemblance to the original. But it marked the beginning of his successful tenure in the town.

The theatre hall hosted several plays by poet and writer Marie Knitschke, a native of Šumperk. The audience grew fond of the undemanding comedies and dramas drawing on Šumperk’s past. The play Alt Schönberg focused on the witch trials that took place in the town in the 17th century. Marie Knitschke herself was a descendant of both a victim of the trials and the inquisitor. This accomplished, emancipated lady became an inspiration for many at the turn of the century.