40 years, 40 stories

Interview with Valter Zocchi, owner and manager:

Does Borgo San Cristoforo retain architectural traces or medieval elements to this day? If so, how do these contribute to the atmosphere and identity of the place? 

Borgo San Cristoforo 1472 still retains architectural elements from the medieval period, which define its identity and enrich its atmosphere. The real soul of the historic house is the small Church of San Cristoforo around which the entire Borgo was built to accommodate the monks and wayfarers who had to travel from France to Milan. The first foundation dates back to the Longobard era (568-774 A.D.), then it was rebuilt in 1472 and consecrated as the ‘Oratory of San Cristoforo’, patron saint of travellers and wayfarers. It is still consecrated today and is scrupulously preserved.  

Architectural interventions have respected the medieval pre-existences, enhancing traditional materials such as river stone, clay bricks and oak wood. The inclusion of a maze inspired by the abbey labyrinths recalls medieval spirituality, while elements such as the barn, stable and vegetable garden evoke the dwelling’s agricultural vocation. Borgo San Cristoforo 1472 is today a place where history, nature and architecture intertwine harmoniously.  

What do you consider to be the most characteristic and suggestive element of the historic house and why?  

The most characteristic and suggestive element of Borgo San Cristoforo 1472 is its deep connection with nature, which envelops the visitor in a timeless atmosphere. Stepping through the large gate, one is immersed in a harmonious landscape. The entrance avenue, framed by imposing hornbeams and fragrant creepers, leads to secret gardens, flowering pergolas and rustic spaces steeped in memory.  

The Borgo is located in the valley of the Ticino Park and is home to more than 30,000 square metres of parkland, with water gardens, aromatic Mediterranean herbs, a blueberry labyrinth and an ancient orchard that preserves varieties that are now rare. Every corner is landscaped with respect for biodiversity and sustainability, offering an oasis of peace and authentic beauty. Walking through historic vineyards and shaded trails means experiencing a continuous dialogue with nature, which is not just a decorative element, but the very essence of the dwelling. A unique green-luxury sensory experience.  

As an owner, how do you balance tradition and innovation in the management of your property?  

At Borgo San Cristoforo 1472, tradition and innovation are harmoniously intertwined in the management of the historical heritage. The Chiesetta di San Cristoforo and the surrounding Borgo preserve their authenticity through respect for the original architecture and meticulous restoration. Each intervention is guided by the desire to preserve the memory of the place. Values such as the enthusiasm, passion, energy and love that the Zocchi family has put into the management of this historic residence for generations have been handed down to us for the strong emotions it can arouse in all seasons. Real emotions.  

At the same time, Borgo San Cristoforo 1472 renews itself as an exclusive space for events, reinterpreting its function without distorting its identity. The sustainable use of space, the ‘tailor-made’ reception and the integration of modern services guarantee a unique experience, where history meets the present. In this balance, the Borgo continues to live and tell its story, enhancing the past to inspire the future.  

Interview with Giles Keating, owner:

Athelhampton has been home to notable families for over 500 years, from the Martyns in the Tudor period to the current custodians. How have the contributions of past owners shaped the identity of Athelhampton today, and how do you keep their stories alive for visitors? 

A Martyn relative’s attempt to assassinate Elizabeth I failed; a century later, the Strangways successfully helped unseat James II. Catherine Long twice refused the future King William IV, instead marrying the Duke of Wellington’s nephew, a handsome cad who drove her to death. Thomas Hardy as a teenager watched his father renovating the house and later returned as an honoured guest, while Peggy Redhead hosted Noël Coward in the 1930s. After the Second World War, the Cooke family was in the vanguard of those opening historic houses for the enjoyment of the public.

Today, these stories are told through videos, discreet signage, and above all in person by a dedicated team of knowledgeable guides. 

Athelhampton was awarded EHH’s European Sustainable Heritage Award in 2024 in recognition of its commitment to conservation and sustainability. What sustainable practices have been implemented in the house and gardens, and how do they balance historic preservation with modern environmental responsibility? 

The centrepiece of Athelhampton’s contribution to sustainability is a renewable energy system: solar panels, a battery array, 19 heat pumps and improved insulation. This has reduced the house’s annual net carbon emissions to zero, while protecting its fabric, and the comfort of visitors, with year-round constant gentle heat.

Alongside this, pesticides are no longer used, the front lawns are kept next and tidy by GPS-driven electric “Gordon” (replacing a noisy petrol-powered mower) while the vast Autumn crop of fallen leaves is composted for the springtime flowers. In the cafe, the emphasis is on locally-sourced produce and if someone wants a takeaway, it’s paper mugs and wooden cutlery. 

The gardens at Athelhampton are a key feature of the estate, being part of the Great Garden Trail of Dorset. Can you share insights into their historical evolution and any restoration efforts that have been undertaken to maintain their authenticity? 

Athelhampton would have had elegant formal gardens in the Elizabethan era, but these disappeared over the centuries as owners increasingly used the house for farm operations. Then, in the 1890s, brilliant polymath designer Inigo Thomas created new gardens, drawing inspiration both from its Tudor origins and from contemporary Gertrude Jekyll. He created a series of “outdoor rooms”, with routes leading from one walled area to another, ordered by long lines of symmetry that nevertheless allow an intimate scale.

Later owners have extended the design, adding a fabulous walled kitchen garden and a wonderful riverside walk, while maintaining the integrity of Thomas’s core areas. Signature features include the yew trees that he planted, which have grown from the height of a child to become taller than a house; the central Corona, now sporting beautiful magentas; the snowdrops in the wild areas in late winter and the stunning spring flower borders. 

Interview with Angela Calderan, daughter of the owner:

Strambinello Castle has very ancient origins, dating back to the Middle Ages. Which original elements from that period are still visible today?

The castle has undergone numerous alterations over the centuries, but still retains some medieval elements. Among these, the crenellated walls, towers and mullioned windows have been restored according to a historical-conservative criterion.

The original structure, dating back to at least the 12th century, was quadrangular with three inner courtyards, but some parts have been lost, partly due to the destruction suffered during the Tuchinaggio revolt in 1387. Another medieval element is the chapel of St Sulpice, attested as early as 1329, which originally stood separate from the castle and was later incorporated into the fortress in the 17th century. Its original location is not certain, but it is known that it served as a religious reference point for the villagers. 

The castle also boasts a beautiful garden. How do nature and architecture dialogue in the space?

The garden of Strambinello Castle is carefully tended by the current owner, creating a harmonious dialogue between nature and architecture. The medieval structure, with its crenellated walls and towers, blends in with the surrounding vegetation, where old varieties of roses and a pomegranate tree stand out in the centre of the courtyard.

The restoration enabled the creation of a beautiful English-style garden, which has become an integral part of the castle, enhancing its surroundings with an atmosphere of refined charm. 

Can you tell us more about the ambitious restoration project that has been carried out on the property?

The restoration of Strambinello Castle, started in 1983 by the eldest of its three owners, is a historical-conservative intervention that is still ongoing. It has made it possible to recover original medieval elements, such as crenellated walls, towers, mullioned windows and Gothic arches, reintegrating the fortress into its historical context.

In addition, Baroque fireplaces and frescoes with noble coats of arms, witnesses to the castle’s historical stratification, have been restored. Particular attention was given to the fresco dedicated to Charles Emmanuel II of Savoy, with stuccoes similar to those of the Luganese Masters of Venaria Reale, and to the now deconsecrated chapel of St Sulpice, where the fresco of the Saint dressed as a Roman soldier can still be recognised. The restoration also included the creation of the garden. 

Interview with Jessica Angel, owner:

Château du Feÿ has a rich 400-year-old history, intertwined with French nobility, intellectuals, and patrons of the arts. How do you honour this legacy while introducing contemporary initiatives like Feÿtopia and Feÿ Arts? 

At Château du Feÿ, we believe that the best way to honour heritage, particularly its architecture and the key figures who shaped it, is to see it as a living, evolving space. By blending history with contemporary creativity, we don’t just preserve the past; we make it relevant for future generations. 

Feÿ’s 400-year history serves as a foundation for imagining and shaping the future. It inspires us to build for the next 400 years, rather than just the next 10, while also honouring the fact that everything we know today comes from centuries of accumulated knowledge and intergenerational exchange. 

In practice, whether at Feÿtopia or Feÿ Arts, we never force a connection to the past, but its presence is undeniable. It naturally influences the people and artists who engage with the space, leaving a lasting impact through its timeless energy.   

You were the winner of the Young Heritage Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2023 and your castle serves as a hub connecting art, nature, and community. Could you share how hosting diverse events and workshops contributes to building a creative ecosystem and bridging rural and urban populations?  

Winning the Young Heritage Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2023 was an incredible recognition of our mission at Château du Feÿ: to create a living, breathing ecosystem where art, nature, and community intersect. 

Hosting a wide range of events and workshops is central to this vision. By welcoming artists, researchers, entrepreneurs, activists, and local producers, we foster unexpected collaborations and bring together people who might not naturally cross paths. 

For example, our various residencies allow urban creatives and thinkers to immerse themselves in a rural environment, drawing inspiration from nature while engaging with local farmers, workers, and artisans. This exchange ensures a meaningful dialogue between global perspectives and a grounded local understanding. This mix of creative disciplines and backgrounds helps bridge the gap between rural and urban populations, proving that innovation doesn’t just happen in cities. Instead, we believe it thrives in places rooted in the land but open to new imaginaries and futures. 

With a 103-acre estate and a 90-acre private forest, how do you implement sustainable practices to preserve the environment while accommodating events and visitors? 

Finding the right balance is always a challenge. In the forest, most people naturally follow the same paths, which helps keep certain areas undisturbed. In the garden, we apply a similar approach by using wooden enclosures to gently guide visitors and protect wildflower areas. We’ve noticed that many people don’t intuitively know where to walk, so subtly framing the paths helps maintain the landscape while allowing everyone to enjoy the space responsibly. 

Over the past two years, this has become easier thanks to our wonderful gardener, Guillaume, who keeps a close eye on these aspects. We also provide guidelines to vendors and clients, outlining the do’s and don’ts of the château to ensure respectful use of the space. 

Additionally, we’ve started implementing signage to highlight our sustainable practices, but this is just the beginning. There’s still more to be done, and we’re continuously working on ways to improve our approach to environmental preservation while hosting events and welcoming visitors. 

Interview with Joaquín Mencos, owner:

Built at the end of the 16th century, Palacio de los Mencos uniquely integrates medieval remains into its design. How do these architectural elements reflect the palace’s historical evolution, and what challenges did you face in preserving this fusion? 

One of the towers of the Palacio de los Mencos stands on the remains of an old medieval defensive building in the town of Tafalla. This Renaissance-style house was built in the 16th century and, in order to enlarge the wine cellar, a wing was later added on the west side. After a fire during the War of Independence in 1813, the wooden gallery in the courtyard and the main staircase were destroyed, but were later rebuilt.  

The palace houses a historic winery, a testament to the Mencos family’s longstanding relationship with viticulture. How have you revitalised traditional wine-making practices, and what role does this heritage play in the estate’s current operations?  

We made an exhaustive study of all the existing documentation in the archive on winemaking in the house cellar, including the processes, techniques, tools and experiments carried out.

During the guided tours, the aim is to transport visitors to the functioning of the winery in the 19th century. In addition, a video has been produced recreating one of the ancestors who gave the winery its greatest boost, explaining its history and operation, which has been published on the website.

Offering guided tours and wine tastings, Palacio de los Mencos provides an immersive experience into its rich past. How do these activities enhance visitors’ understanding of the palace’s history and the cultural heritage of Tafalla? 

Thanks to the collaboration of the entire Mencos family and the research work carried out, the house has been redecorated and partially turned into a museum to offer visitors a complete view of its history and that of the family. Throughout the tour, four centuries of Spanish history are reviewed through the family characters, the war conflicts experienced and the visits of royalty. The added value is that it is the members of the family themselves who welcome visitors and narrate in first person their historical legacy. 

Interview with Andrei Dvorjaninov, owner:

Keila-Joa Schloss Fall has undergone an impressive restoration, bringing new life to its 19th-century grandeur. What were some of the most surprising discoveries made during the restoration process, and how did they shape the final result?

The design of the Castle of Keila–Joa was made by the Saint Peterburg architect Hans Stackenschneider, who later became a court architect and the most important representative of the historical style in Russia. The castle was built next to the Keila river on the right bank and it was one of the first neo-Gothic style buildings in Estonia.  

The biggest discovery for us was finding the original building plans. Based on them, we were able to restore the castle exactly as it was 200 years ago.

The castle is known for hosting concerts, exhibitions, and exclusive events. How does its unique atmosphere enhance these experiences, and what kind of cultural events do you feel best reflect the spirit of Keila-Joa? 

Schloss Fall castle is known for its unique exhibitions and concerts. The Castle also offers high-class accommodation and a highly regarded restaurant: Keila-Joa castle has been chosen to be one of  the world’s most amazing castle hotels!  

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Keila-Joa is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, from waterfalls to parklands. How do you integrate this stunning environment into the guest experience, and what role does nature play in the estate’s identity today?

The Keila-Joa waterfall is the second largest waterfall in Estonia. This waterfall is visited by up to 350 000 people per year . Of course, the castle is an integral part of the waterfall , like the “cherry on top”. 

Interview with Olivier de Trazegnies, owner:

Château de Corroy is considered to be the most important and complete example of its kind left by the 13th century – not only for Belgium, but for the whole of the Low Countries. Why is that?

It is the only ‘Philippian’ (Philippe-Auguste) type castle built outside France, apart from the great fortresses built by Edward I of England in Wales. Its builder was the Sovereign Count of Vianden, grandson of the Latin Emperor of Constantinople, Peter I, and it has remained in an exceptional state of preservation, still being inhabited by a descendant of the builder, the 15th Marquis of Trazegnies.

The château’s rooms and park can be hired for events. Which are the most sought-after? And which parts of the château are the most popular with the public? 

The interior, refurbished with the help of the association, has become quite precious and contains many objects and works of art. The setting is no longer suitable for large weddings or parties. But dinners, lunches, exhibitions and prestigious seminars are all welcome.

As for the park, it lends itself to much more varied activities. The public appreciates both the lived-in atmosphere and the meticulous upkeep of the grounds. 

The château also has an association dedicated to its preservation, called Les Amis Du Château De Corroy A.S.B.L. What are its activities and how is it helping to safeguard this historic house?

The association is responsible for tours, exhibitions, cultural activities such as music and theatre, film shoots and a hundred other ways of raising funds. The money raised is used exclusively for the upkeep and restoration of the château, and it also aims to highlight the history of the monument and its owners.

Interview with Samantha Jennings, marketing manager :

Kiplin Hall is a Jacobean house. What are the typical features of this style that can be found in this building?  

Kiplin Hall is a Jacobean house that has undergone some alterations in its 400-year history, but some typical features of this style can still be found. The layout of the oldest part of the building features a symmetrical design, typical of the style. The ogee domes on the roof line give Kiplin Hall a distinctive silhouette against the skyline.  Built from brick in English bond, rather than local stone, the exterior also features a diaper pattern fashionable in the period. Mullion windows take in the surrounding views. While Roman and Tuscan inspired columns at doorways inspire grandeur linked to antiquity.    

The historic house boasts a beautiful Gothic-style library from 1820 that contains more than 2,500 books. What are the conservation challenges of this magnificent space?  

The library has many large windows on its south and west walls. The sunlight through these windows poses a conservation challenge to the wooden shelving, panelling and magnificent fireplace surround. Wood bleaches in sunlight, so we have recently installed new conservation blinds to protect the library from the sunlight whilst ensuring visitors can still see the views to the gardens and the beautiful stained glass in the library windows.  

A recent roofing survey revealed another conservation challenge: the roof needed significant repair, posing a real threat of water ingress that could damage the fabric of the building as well as putting the library collection at risk. With the help of a grant from The Department for Culture, Media and Sport funds MEND, which is administered by Arts Council England, we have been able to undertake the reroofing of this area and work on the masonry and brickwork to ensure it remains secure for years to come.  

Kiplin Hall hosts a variety of events for all ages. What are the most immersive or interactive experiences available to visitors during these events?  

This year we are marking 400 years of Kiplin Hall with a brilliant celebratory programme of activities and events. These include a lot of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in history or enjoy the gardens and grounds. Throughout 2025, visitors can discover more about Kiplin Hall’s origins, with our interactive exhibition called ‘Still Standing’, which explores the architectural developments of the Hall. There is also fun for all the family, with architectural trails for families to spot features as they explore the Hall.  

Our Pop-Up Catch Clubs will fill the hall with the sound of singing from the period. Visitors will be able to join in during these interactive sessions. For younger children, Mondays during the summer holidays offer a theatrical approach to learning and celebrating our 400^th birthday when we party like it’s 1625. Topped off with a living history weekend at the end of August, our Big Birthday Bash. We’ll round up the year with our American connection on Thanksgiving as we appreciate our volunteers and visitors.   

Interview with Sophia Emmanuel, owner:

Kambones 1615 has been in your family for over five centuries. How do you balance the rich historical significance of the property with the modern amenities and experiences you offer to guests?

Our historic family home has been lived in continuously for 500 years and we want guests to feel that they are part of our story. However, opening the home to guests means accepting that it must not feel like a museum and that it must be user-friendly for guests not acquainted with the special needs of antique embroidery or very old books for example. Therefore, we have carefully chosen the most robust items for display and usage so that guests can truly enjoy their stay and not have to worry about damaging family heirlooms. 

Kambones website and social media give valuable insights into the history, cultural output and particular architecture of Kambones and there we can “display” items which are too fragile to be part of the home’s everyday life. 
Our experiences take place in different areas, and we always introduce the history and use of each space.

As a recipient of the EHH European Sustainable Heritage Award, what specific sustainable practices have you implemented at your house to ensure environmental responsibility while maintaining the estate’s historical integrity? 

As a wonderful example of vernacular architecture which is by definition sustainable, Kambones 1615 is completely energy neutral, having no need for heating or cooling units. All our lighting indoors is LED and outdoor lighting is solar. Our main electricity is from renewable energy sources. We replaced damaged windows with double glazing while keeping the traditional designs of the windows, doors and solid wood shutters.

Our biggest environmental challenge, however, is to maximise the water economy and we do this by recycling all our wastewater and having a few drought-resistant herbs and plants rather than extensive planting schemes. 
A spirit of economy of natural resources was always part of the identity of Kambones and we have implemented traditional methods of household cleaning with olive soap and other simple ingredients like vinegar and wood ash.

Kambones 1615 offers curated experiences such as a guitar concert in the historic olive press or lessons in arts and crafts. How do these activities enhance guests’ understanding of the property’s history and the local culture of Naxos?

Our family has always had a passion for the arts, especially music and handicrafts.  The dissemination of our intangible heritage is as important as the restoration of the completed architectural restoration. There is sacred music composed for the Catholic chapel by an ancestor which is currently being edited for performance and our resident classical guitarist performs his own compositions for the guitar as part of his repertoire. 

At our classical guitar recitals, we offer a degustation of home-grown olives, cheese and agricultural produce which are all part of the farming tradition of Kambones and the surrounding area. Olive oil tasting by a trained sommelier is another offering which gives guests a deeper understanding of this fascinating product. Local women who learnt to make lace and do embroidery with our ancestors are part of a living and continuous tradition of skilled craftspeople whose input is part of Kambones history.

Interview with Carlotta Bastian, owner:

Château Lobkovice has been in the Lobkowicz family since 1409. It was restituted in 1991 after the Velvet Revolution. You took on the project three years ago – what challenges do you currently face in reviving the castle?

The Château has been dormant for decades, with only occasional work done on the roof. We are now starting from scratch: the rooms are empty, lacking floors, plaster, electrical systems, water and heating. The entire infrastructure needs to be rebuilt. 

In addition to the structural challenges, the bureaucratic process in the Czech Republic is substantial, particularly when dealing with authorities and heritage protection. As non-native speakers, we also face language barriers, which make communication with officials time-consuming. All of this means the process requires great patience. However, we are confident that the effort will be worthwhile to breathe new life into this historic place. 

The castle is not only a historic site but also holds cultural significance for the region. What role does it play within the local community, and how do you plan to further enhance this engagement in the future?

Château Lobkovice is a defining monument for the village and the town. There are only a few historical buildings in this area, making the castle something the locals can be proud of. Its location by the forest and the Elbe River also makes it a popular environment for local recreation. 

To strengthen our connection with the community, we host public events on the château grounds. We also offer the venue for weddings, giving couples the opportunity to celebrate their special day in a unique setting. It is important to us to make the castle accessible to the public again, especially after so many years of being closed. We want people to witness the ongoing restoration. 

The preservation of historical buildings requires great care. How will you balance preservation with the use of the space for events and guests?  

Restoring a historic building presents unique challenges that require creativity and sensitivity. Modern insulation, heating, and ventilation systems must be integrated with the historical windows, thick walls, and original construction methods. Our goal is to preserve the castle’s original charm while ensuring its sustainable use. 

Château Lobkovice reflects the history of its time, built in three distinct architectural periods: Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Each generation has adapted and developed the castle to suit its needs. In this tradition, we continue with great respect for the past, while looking to the future. 

Interview with Thomas Emmet, next generation owner:

Altidore Castle has stood since 1730 in the heart of County Wicklow. What aspects of its history do you find most fascinating, and how do they shape the way the estate is preserved today?  

Altidore Castle was built in 1730 and bought by the Emmet family in 1944 to create a new home in Ireland. The Emmet family for generations had lived in New York following our ancestor Thomas Addis Emmet, as one of the leaders of the 1798 rebellion, being forced to leave Ireland. His younger brother Robert Emmet was executed for treason in 1803 after leading his own rebellion against colonial rule.

The four generations of the Emmet family have been fascinated by the history of the house and it appears it was designed by Edward Lovett Pearce. It has had many owners from the family of early romantic poet Mary Tighe to being used as a tuberculosis sanatorium in the early twentieth century. The house and its history are always on our mind in terms of planning for the future through diverse events and collaborating with the local community.  

Set in the stunning Wicklow countryside, Altidore Castle is surrounded by nature. How do you manage the estate’s landscape to balance preservation with modern needs?  

Nature has always been at the forefront of everything we do at Altidore. The two hundred acre estate has been organic since 1994. It was a national finalist in the Royal Dublin Society Woodland Conservation Award 2024 alongside other nominations. It has a twenty hectare glen that contains ancient or long established woodland with unusual bryophytes such as Dumortier’s Liverwort. The river running through this woodland has been designated a Blue Dot River, the highest designation in Irish river preservation.

There are also three newly planted native woodlands as well as “discovered” trees from the Americas that were planted in the nineteenth century. The selection of flora and fauna at Altidore is special and we regularly have biodiversity walks to guide people about creating and preserving natural habitats. We have a forest school for children and are beginning a partnership with a mycologist and natural herbalist around fungi and wildcrafts. 

Opening a historic estate to the public requires careful planning. How do you prepare the estate for the seasonal openings, and what experiences do you aim to provide for guests during their visits? 

We love opening to the public but it does require planning and preparation. The house tours are all given by the Emmet family which we believe makes them special. Altidore is a family home as well as being open to the public and this is important to us. Our house tours include the history of the house as well as the history of the Emmet family in Ireland and America.

We cater to small groups making the tours intimate and we adore questions, especially from someone who knows something new about an aspect of the architecture or the history of the house. Irish people have a complicated history with historic houses so our tours aim to show how custodians live in these houses in the twenty-first century. As we open more to the public we are looking at expanding our range of events – exhibitions, annual parties and nature driven events. 

Interview with the Leithold family, owners and managers:

The Palais Bülow was saved from collapse and has been transformed into both a home and a cultural space. What were some of the biggest challenges in restoring the building, and how does your family balance living in the house while sharing it with visitors?   

Our house is among the most important buildings in Ludwigslust, a small baroque town. The 200-year-old Palais, once a venue for opulent celebrations and political decisions, was in a desolate state when we bought it in 2012—decades of socialism had severely damaged its historic structure.

During the initial restoration, we removed roof fixtures and discovered severe dry rot, requiring over a year to repair and replace the beams, preventing collapse. Once secured, we focused on restoring the historic rooms, including the ornate “Ludwigsluster Papiermaché” ceilings. Hidden in attic rubble, we recovered lost fragments of these decorations, allowing us to piece them back together.

Our family became skilled in roofing, painting, and restoring papier-mâché, guided by our father’s expertise as a historian and restorer. Today, we proudly share our home with visitors, offering intimate guided tours by appointment to balance our privacy with the best experience. 

Your house is one of only three buildings still featuring original “Ludwigsluster Papiermaché”. How do you preserve and research this rare decorative art, and what role does your hands-on workshop play in keeping this tradition alive?  

“Ludwigsluster Papiermaché” is a unique art-historical phenomenon. From 1763 to 1830, the Ludwigslust manufactory produced not only room decorations but also replicas of antique statues and busts, which were highly sought after in France and Great Britain. These works adorned castles, manor houses, and parks, though few have survived. To better understand this craft, we research archives and seek exhibits worldwide. We were fortunate to acquire a sculpture from 1785—the first made in the manufactory—for our collection.

Our guests experience “Ludwigsluster Papiermaché” firsthand. In our workshop, we showcase historical pieces, explain the craft’s structure, and invite visitors to create their own souvenirs using various molds. This hands-on approach keeps the tradition alive. Recently, we published Ludwigsluster Papiermaché – A Journey of Discovery, sharing our research and experiences to preserve this fascinating art form for future generations.

Your guided tours take visitors beyond the usual historic house experience by including personal stories, restoration insights, and even interactive workshops. What do you think makes these tours so special, and how do you ensure guests leave feeling inspired by the history of Palais Bülow? 

Crafting papier-mâché in our workshop is a memorable experience for visitors. While their pieces dry, we guide small groups through the Palais, showcasing authentic inventories saved from looting in 1945 and later returned to us. We also enjoy sitting in the garden with guests over coffee and cake, sharing stories. Each visitor takes home their own “Ludwigsluster Papiermaché” creation and can explore our shop’s exhibits, books, and gifts.

On special occasions, our daughters perform classical violin concerts in the Palais garden. A yearly highlight is the visit from the German Empire Dance Association. Every May, guests in historical costumes dance in our hall with a dance master and harpsichordist, recreating 200-year-old traditions. These special days bring the Palais’s history to life, and our family takes pride in preserving its legacy for future generations.

Interview with Francesca di Thiene, manager:

The Castello Di Thiene has very ancient origins. Is there any furniture, artwork, or room in the castle that you consider particularly significant or noteworthy? If yes, which one and why?  

The private archive of the Castle is undoubtedly the heart and one of the most fascinating rooms with a valuable historical heritage, protected since 1972 and declared of regional interest in 2006. It houses documents from the Porto, Colleoni, Capra, and Thiene families, as well as fragments of archives acquired through dowry or legacy. It includes notarial deeds, parchments, papal and ducal bulls, registers, and drawings, dating from the 11th to the 20th century.

Recently, the Porto, Disegni, and Capra collections have been inventoried thanks to contributions from the Cariverona Foundation, the Veneto Region, and the Ministry of Culture. The Bertoliana Library of Vicenza coordinated the computerised cataloging in collaboration with the Archival Superintendency. Among the documents, over 545 drawings stand out, including 450 historical cartographies of landscape and geographical significance. The Castle also organises special openings with an archivist to enhance and promote this cultural wealth. 

How is the building used today, and what types of events does it host?

The Castle, still inhabited by the family, is open all year round to welcome visitors in various ways. It is possible to undertake individual visits independently or book guided tours to delve into the history and architecture of the place. We also offer educational paths for school groups, with targeted educational activities to engage students.

In addition to regular visits, we organise extraordinary openings with expert guides, conferences on historical and artistic themes, concerts, and cultural events. For audiences of all ages, we offer itinerant shows, dramatised visits, and children’s entertainment activities. The castle is also an exclusive location for unique stays, offering an immersive experience in a historical setting. We make our spaces available for private events, such as conferences, banquets, and receptions, ensuring a refined and evocative atmosphere for every special occasion. 

What are the main challenges in managing and conserving a building like the Thiene Castle?

Managing the Thiene Castle presents structural, economic, regulatory, and managerial challenges. Conservation requires constant interventions to counteract the degradation of ancient materials, moisture, and infiltrations, while ensuring the adaptation of systems without altering the historical integrity.

From an economic standpoint, maintenance is costly and obtaining public or private funding is not straightforward. To sustain itself, the castle must develop economic activities such as events and cultural tourism. Regulatory constraints impose compliance with cultural heritage laws and complex bureaucratic processes. Touristic valorisation requires promotional strategies, visitor flow management, and diversification of activities, balancing accessibility and heritage protection.

Finally, climate change exacerbates the deterioration of the structure and ancient trees. An integrated approach among public entities, private sectors, and the local community is necessary, but its realisation is complicated. 

Interview with Paweł Esse, owner and manager:

Somianka Manor faced near-collapse after World War II but was meticulously restored using traditional conservation techniques. Could you share some of the challenges encountered during this restoration process and how you overcame them to preserve the manor’s historical integrity? 

After over 40 years, my parents managed to recover our 19th-century house from the state, a vast ruin in Greater Poland. The challenge was too big. A decision was made to find a new home closer to Warsaw, the centre of our lives. 

It was a cold November in the 1990s. The house was empty, silent and waiting for me. I was alone in the big house, but I felt safe in it. It had survived over 200 years, enduring the darkest times for Poland. That was when a new chapter in our history began: careful restoration and a new life. 

The manor sustained severe damage to its walls, roof, and interior. Repairing such damage while maintaining historical accuracy was a difficult task. We stabilised and reinforced the structure using historically accurate materials, which required highly skilled craftsmen, artisans familiar with traditional building methods. 

The manor is known for hosting concerts that resonate through its 19th-century styled interiors. How do these musical events contribute to the cultural atmosphere of Somianka Manor, and what role does music play in connecting the estate’s history with the present? 

Music brings the whole Manor to life. It takes you beyond the shallow and insignificant world of today’s mass media, into the world of classical music. The early 19th-century, neoclassical architecture of the manor, with its elegant interiors and historical significance, creates a perfect backdrop for musical performances. Music in this setting becomes more than just an auditory experience, it’s a way to connect with the manor’s rich history and honour its legacy. 

It’s a natural place for chamber music. Just like it was in the 19th century. In the living room, several dozen listeners have direct contact with musicians, they are one group experiencing music. It’s clearly an opportunity for new generations to engage with history in a meaningful way, as they experience the estate in much the same way it might have been enjoyed in the past. The same happens with contemporary musical interpretations that keep the manor’s cultural influence alive. 

Situated near a small church in the heart of the village, Somianka Manor serves as an architectural, cultural, and historical landmark. How does the manor engage with the local community, and what initiatives are in place to foster a sense of shared heritage and cultural appreciation? 

I don’t want to overestimate the role of our House, but Somianka Manor, with its center location plays a role in the local community,. 

It serves as both a historical landmark and a vibrant part of the area’s cultural identity, hosting social and cultural events. It supports the local Women’s Rural Circle, which celebrates the region’s heritage, including youth choir concerts for the local church community. Students learn about local history, the manor’s architecture, and cultural topics. These educational programs help the younger generation stay connected to the past. 

The manor also offers a scholarship for an outstanding primary school student and partners with local school to organise history tours and lessons. Every summer, we host a singing school at the manor, where we run workshops for those learning to sing. The experience culminates in an intimate concert, where each participant gets the chance to perform their piece. 

Interview with Henri Carvallo, owner and manager:

Château de Villandry is renowned for its Renaissance-style gardens, restored in the early 20th century. How do you manage to reconcile historical authenticity with contemporary horticultural techniques to preserve the beauty and ecological vitality of the gardens?

The gardens of the Château de Villandry are listed as a ‘Monument Historique’, and we are very keen to preserve the integrity of their original design. Nevertheless, we have to deal with the gradual wear and tear of the garden structures, and every year we carry out major restoration work on the garden’s mineral structures (balustrades, ponds, low walls, etc.), wooden structures (arbours, trellises, kiosks, etc.) and plants, according to a multi-annual plan. In recent years, we have replaced 100,000 boxwood plants in the kitchen garden to combat fungal diseases. Since 2008, the gardens have been maintained in an entirely ecological way.

Villandry hosts a variety of events, such as ‘Les Nuits des Mille Feux’ and ‘Les Rendez-vous aux Jardins.’ How do these events contribute to the local community and enhance visitors’ understanding of the château’s history and gardens?

Since 1997 we’ve been running an arts season and a number of events, bringing Villandry much more to life. The local public, who become Villandry’s best ambassadors to visiting friends, are now very attached to these events.

Managing a historic estate like Château de Villandry presents unique challenges. What sustainable practices have you put in place to preserve the château and its gardens while meeting the needs of modern visitors?

Our aim is to bring beauty and happiness to our visitors through maintenance and restoration work of the highest possible quality. All this work is carried out with an ever-increasing focus on ecological concerns: biological control and the use of biological auxiliaries to combat predators, the preservation of a colony of bats and swallows on the site, a very strong emphasis on saving and recycling water, the gradual electrification of farm machinery and vehicles, and a reduction in the use of paper.