A változás tere. Szent András kastély: Kastélyrekonstrukció egy kicsit másképp
A space for change. St. Andrew's Castle, Bölcske: Castle reconstruction a little differently

Author(s): Edit Belasics
Subject(s): Museology & Heritage Studies, Architecture
Published by: Pécsi Tudományegyetem Művészeti Kar Művészettörténet Tanszék
Keywords: castle reconstruction; cultural heritage; sustainable architecture; biodynamic farming; historic preservation; adaptive reuse; cultural tourism; artistic residency; ecological design; community development
Summary/Abstract: The study presents the reconstruction and contemporary reinterpretation of the Szent András Castle in Bölcske, Hungary, based on the author’s personal experience as owner and operator of the estate. The author argues that castles should not merely function as static historical monuments or hotels, but as dynamic spaces of cultural, social, and environmental transformation. The paper emphasizes that ownership of a castle is not absolute possession but participation in a historical process that links past, present, and future generations. Special attention is devoted to the integration of historical architectural values with modern technologies, including geothermal heating, wastewater treatment, and sustainable infrastructure. The reconstruction preserved the Neoclassical character of the castle while introducing contemporary artistic and interior design elements that harmonize with the historical environment. The estate’s environmental philosophy is based on biodynamic agriculture, ecological responsibility, historical garden restoration, and local food production using chemical-free cultivation methods. The study also examines the traditional social role of castles as centers of education, culture, innovation, and community influence within their wider regional environments. The Szent András Castle hosts conferences, artistic residencies, gastronomic programs, educational workshops, and cultural events designed to foster creativity, dialogue, and personal development. International and Hungarian examples, including Schumacher College, Fontevraud Abbey, and the Károlyi Castle at Fehérvárcsurgó, are discussed as models for multifunctional heritage preservation. The author concludes that historic castles can once again become active centers of knowledge, sustainability, cultural exchange, and social transformation adapted to the needs of the twenty-first century.

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