In the heart of North Prague's historic center lies an enchanting island nestled within the Vltava River – Rohan Island. This picturesque locale is set to undergo a transformation into a vibrant residential district, slated for completion in the coming decade.
However, the city's administration has stirred a debate by announcing plans to christen the new streets with names of renowned philosophers like Kant and Derrida. Yet, amidst this proposal, Czech residents have launched a spirited online petition advocating for a different tribute – one inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's timeless masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings.
For those unfamiliar with Tolkien's epic tale, the connection might seem puzzling. Rohan Island, it turns out, shares its name not with the fictional realm of Middle-earth, but with a local poet, Josef Rohan.
Undeterred by this detail, the petitioners have garnered over 10,000 signatures, championing the celebration of the valiant heroes who once graced the pages of Tolkien's fantasy saga.
Moreover, the absence of female representation among the proposed street names has prompted criticism. In response, the petitioners advocate for honoring Eowyn, the fearless shieldmaiden, to rectify this oversight.
Notably, the campaign has found support from former Prague Mayor Zdenek Hřib of the Pirate Party, adding weight to the cause.
This fervor for fantasy is not new to Czech culture. In a notable census event in 2021, over 21,000 Czechs proudly declared themselves as Jedi, echoing their love for the mystical worlds of Star Wars.
As the debate rages on, the fate of Rohan Island's streets hangs in the balance, caught between the allure of philosophy and the enchantment of Middle-earth.
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