The town castle, now classified as a “vanished castle”, and an important nationalcultural monument, will undergo extensive revitalization that will transform it intoan attractive and accessible space for the public. The project’s goal is not only therestoration of the original foundation and presentation of the castle but also theharmonious integration of historical structures with modern architectural elements thatemphasize its character and significance.

1. Torso-like presentation of the historical remains of the castle (Stropkov Castle –vanished historical landmark)

Stropkov Castle, today classified as a “vanished castle” and a national cultural monument,formed a significant part of the town’s fortifications. The first documented mention of itsexistence dates back to 1408 when it was referred to as Castellum Thoporo. The castleunderwent several renovations, with extensive fortifications added in the 16th and 17thcenturies, including corner bastions and connections to the parish church. Archaeologicalresearch has revealed its original trapezoidal layout, with dimensions of approximately120×70 meters.

In the 19th century, the castle was significantly damaged by fire and gradually dismantled,with its remnants preserved mainly in the form of today’s church, manor, and archaeologicalfinds below ground level. The town of Stropkov has long been striving to restore the castleand integrate it with the surrounding square area. The architectural competition waspreceded by the settlement of property rights and the demolition of houses built on thearchaeological site.

2. Covering new constructions as a protective element and dialogue between historicalremains and new forms

The revitalization project for the town castle in Stropkov focuses on connecting historicalarchaeological finds with modern architecture and sustainable solutions within urbanplanning. A key aspect of the project is the torso-like presentation of the “vanished towncastle”, where the floor plans of the perimeter walls and some of the castle’s fragmentswill be preserved through conservation and protective over-masonry of row masonry.Modern interventions, such as covering structures and small-scale architecture in the formof benches, are clearly distinguished from the original elements, creating a visual contrastbetween the old and the new.

Covering structures serve both protective and aesthetic functions. For example, a modernconstruction on the northwestern bastion, featuring a green roof, protects archaeologicalfinds and clearly distinguishes itself from the original historical parts of the castle. The use ofpigmented concrete contributes to a harmonious visual connection with the square, whichis currently paved in shades of burgundy.

3. Sustainability and sensitive approach to restoration

The design emphasizes ecological sustainability, with systems primarily distributingrainwater to trees. Water in the area will be naturally absorbed by unpaved surfaces, withwide joints in the paving allowing for this absorption. Excess rainwater will be collectedin retention tanks and used to irrigate new green areas. Green roofs will contribute toimproving the microclimate and ecological stability of the area.

4. Multifunctional, inclusive public space

The ‘Green Island’, as the architects call the design proposal, will transform into amultifunctional public space that creates a logical connection between significant historicalpoints such as the Pieta Chapel, the parish church, the manor, and the archaeological areaof the castle. New spaces will be flexibly adapted for organizing cultural, social, and spiritualevents, while maintaining their visual and physical accessibility.

Stages of Work and the Approach to Revitalization

The project implementation will occur in phases. The first phase includes the presentationof historical finds and the creation of new architectural elements in the northern andeastern parts of the area. During the second phase, which will be carried out after thorougharchaeological research, additional parts of the territory will be revitalized.

Experts in the fields of architecture, heritage protection, archaeology, and ecologicalsolutions are participating in the project. The revitalization project for the square and castlein Stropkov is an example of how modern architecture can respect historical heritage whileproviding new functional options for the public.

The revitalization project for the castle complex in Stropkov is being carried out by theS+ collective architectural studio, under the leadership of architect Nikoleta Slováková,who won an open architectural competition for the design solution of the site in 2023.