Some Stories Must Never Be Forgotten: Jan Telensky Charity Unveils Monument to František Suchý in Madrid
This weekend, a bronze monument dedicated to František Suchý was officially unveiled in Madrid, Spain. The project was donated and fully funded by Dr. Jan Telensky as part of his ongoing commitment to preserving historical memory, promoting humanitarian values, and honouring individuals whose courage helped shape a better world.
Created by Czech sculptor Jakub Vlček, the monument now stands in Madrid as a lasting tribute to one of the most remarkable yet often overlooked heroes of the Second World War.
A Hero Who Refused to Let Victims Be Forgotten
František Suchý served as Director of the Strašnice Crematorium in Prague during the Nazi occupation. At a time when authorities sought to erase the identities of political prisoners, resistance fighters, and victims of persecution, Suchý and his son secretly preserved records, names, and urns belonging to thousands of individuals who had been executed or murdered.
Their actions were carried out at enormous personal risk. Had their efforts been discovered, they would have faced severe punishment, including death.
Because of their courage, countless families were later able to identify their loved ones and give them the dignity of remembrance. Many stories that would otherwise have been lost to history survived because one man chose humanity over fear.
A Connection Between Nations
Among those whose identities were preserved were Spanish citizens who became victims of Nazi oppression. Their stories created a unique historical bond between the Czech Republic and Spain, making Madrid a particularly meaningful location for this monument.
The project serves not only as a tribute to František Suchý but also as a symbol of shared European values: courage, compassion, freedom, and respect for human dignity.
Preserving Memory for Future Generations
For Dr. Jan Telensky, philanthropy extends beyond financial support. It includes preserving stories that continue to inspire future generations and ensuring that extraordinary acts of humanity are never forgotten.
By funding and donating this monument, Dr. Telensky sought to create a permanent reminder that individual courage can make a profound difference, even during humanity’s darkest moments.
“History is shaped not only by leaders and governments, but also by ordinary people who choose to do what is right when it matters most. František Suchý was one of those people, and his story deserves to be remembered.”
A Lasting Legacy
Jan Telensky Charity believes that remembering the past is essential to building a better future. Through projects such as the František Suchý monument, the organisation aims to support educational, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives that preserve historical memory and celebrate the values that unite communities across borders.
The unveiling in Madrid represents more than the installation of a sculpture. It is a commitment to ensuring that stories of courage, sacrifice, and humanity continue to inspire generations to come.
