European Historic Houses

1st Owners’ Circle congress

20. – 23. 09. 2023, Prague

Owners’ Circle 2023

The inaugural European Historic Houses Owners’ Circle Congress took place on October 20th, 2023, at Zámek Peruc in the Czech Republic, with 60 participants from 12 countries. Organised by European Historic Houses and our Czech member Asociace majitelů hradů a zámků (AMHZ), the event focused on reducing the carbon footprint of historic properties within the constraints of building and landscape protections. It provided a platform for sharing ideas on sustainable energy solutions and conservation practices in historic homes.

The congress featured a series of insightful presentations, with architects Anders Brüel and Noah Boe-Whitehorn emphasising the value of combining traditional methods with innovative solutions. The discussions covered energy-saving practices like secondary glazing and using natural materials, as well as how renovation can outperform new construction in terms of sustainability. Speakers such as John Reisky de Dubnic and Sister Monika Edinger shared their projects, including a renewable energy initiative at Vilémov Castle and the installation of solar voltaic tiles at a Bavarian monastery, demonstrating how historic properties can embrace modern technologies.

Following the conference, participants toured several historic properties, including the ongoing restoration of Castle Dobříš and Castle Blatná. These properties showcase how historic houses can be revitalised while maintaining their heritage. Attendees also visited Castle Hradek, which exemplifies how a ruined building can be brought back to life through passion and innovation, and the weekend concluded with a tour of Castle Otín, a project still in progress, illustrating the challenges and excitement of restoring historic properties to their former glory.

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