Has been instrumental in the survival of Czech language and for heightening the role of music in the identity of Czech people. Narodní Divadlo – its proper name – is nowadays physical, tangible evidence of the national identity and the willingness of Czechs to remain politically independent. The Grand Opening took place on June the 11th, 1881, and the building operated with just cosmetic changes for close to one hundred years. A full-scale reconstruction started in 1977 and lasted till 1983. Laufen CZ, the company behind brand JIKA, created ceramic replicas for the washbasin and toilets for the occasion, remaining in use ever since.