History Restored - A Must-See
The town of Čachtice is starting to attract tourists not only with its castle, infamously linked to the "Blood Countess" Elizabeth Báthory, but also with the newly renovated and unique Draškovič Manor. The manor boasts a rich history and has been made more attractive in a modern and interactive way, thanks to grants from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the EEA and Norway Grants, along with funding from the Slovak state budget and the Trenčín Region budget with the financing assistance from the Development Bank of the Council of Europe.
Draškovič Manor has become a gateway to exploring life in the past. The Trenčín Museum, which will administer the site, has curated exhibitions to showcase the history. In the basement, the infamous Elizabeth Báthory will tell her story through a visual display, but you will also find there a corner dedicated to wine production. On the upper floor, visitors can learn about the life of the Roma people, the Habans, and other communities that once lived in the area. You can explore also how the nobility resided during that time. The unique execution of exhibitions is designed to allow for self-guided tours. “In the basement we have a holographic movie theater and an interactive wine-making wall, while upstairs there's a blacksmith’s workshop where a virtual blacksmith will greet and have a conversation with you. There’s also a music salon where for a moment you can become a conductor, and a children’s room for the youngest visitors,” said Trenčín Museum Director Peter Martinisko. All these unique exhibits across three floors will be open for the public starting May 1st, when the manor doors officially open. The most curious visitors had an early glimpse during the ceremonial opening, which featured a historical fashion show. In addition, the site is set to offer a tourist information office and a café with a terrace, whose operator for the café is being sought.
Trenčín Region set off the manor’s revitalization in April 2022 and after two years we can now see tangible results. “So far, the total cost, including the furnishings, has been 3.25 million euros, with 1.2 million euros coming from the EEA and Norway Grants, as well as the state budget and more than 2 million euros provided by the Region’s budget,” said Trenčín Governor Jaroslav Baška and thanked everyone that have taken part in the project. The Norwegian ambassador was also present to witness the results. In addition, the region has further plans for this landmark. “We have another project ready, with completed project documentation and a valid building permit from the mayor of Čachtice, for the revitalization and modernization of the manor surroundings, worth approximately half a million euros. We plan to secure funding for this through the current Slovakia Program. The project will add new greenery, small infrastructure, benches, and a fountain to enhance the surroundings of the Draškovič Manor,” the Governor added. The historic landmark therefore is going to be fully open to visitors, offering space not only for cultural events, weddings, and important regional meetings but also for welcoming international guests. If you're passing by, be sure to stop and visit.
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Author: https://www.tsk.sk