31.5.2026
This weekend, I had the honour of donating and funding a bronze monument dedicated to František Suchý, which was officially unveiled in Madrid. The sculpture was created by renowned Czech artist Jakub Vlček and installed in the Madrid Río area near Prague Bridge as a symbol of courage, humanity and historical memory.
Throughout history, many people have achieved great things. Yet only a few have demonstrated the extraordinary moral courage shown by František Suchý.
During the Second World War, he served as director of the Strašnice Crematorium in Prague. Under Nazi occupation, he was ordered to ensure that the remains of executed political prisoners and victims disappeared without a trace. Instead, together with his son, he risked his own life by secretly preserving urns, names and records belonging to thousands of victims.
Because of his bravery, countless families were eventually able to identify their loved ones after the war. Resistance fighters, political prisoners and victims from across Europe were saved from being erased from history. Among them were Spanish citizens whose stories created a remarkable and lasting connection between the Czech Republic and Spain.
When I learned more about František Suchý’s life, I realised that this is not simply a historical story.
It is a reminder that even an ordinary person can choose to do the right thing in extraordinary circumstances.
At a time when the world is often focused on division, conflict and differences, I believe it is important to preserve stories that remind us of courage, compassion and humanity.
That is why I decided to support and fund this monument.
I do not see it merely as a sculpture. I see it as a permanent symbol of European memory. A symbol that human dignity must never be sacrificed to fear, ideology or political power.
My sincere thanks go to Jakub Vlček, whose artistic vision has transformed this remarkable story into a powerful work of art. His sculpture will stand in Madrid for many years as a reminder of the values upon which free societies are built.
I believe philanthropy is not only about financial support.
It is also about protecting the stories that have the power to inspire future generations.
František Suchý is one of those people who must never be forgotten.
And if this monument helps preserve his legacy for the future, then it has achieved its purpose.
Dr. Jan Telensky
