Fifteen years ago, when we first stepped into the decaying grounds of the fortress and manor house in Mladějovice, it felt more like entering a ruin than a home. Everything was crumbling, overgrown, silent. And yet, we sensed something powerful — a story that refused to disappear.

From that moment, we committed ourselves to its restoration. Not as individuals, but as a family. All of us worked together — with our hands, minds, and hearts. Sometimes progress was slow, other times full of energy, but always guided by the idea that this wasn’t just about repairs — it was about bringing life back to a place with a soul.

We never wanted to turn the fortress into a private palace behind closed gates. Quite the opposite. Our goal was to open it up to culture, art, and people. Today, the site hosts studios, exhibitions, creative residencies, and public events. And that was always the dream — to let history speak in a language people understand today.

That’s why we’re deeply honored that our work received first place in the competition for Best Restored Cultural Monument of the South Bohemian Region. It’s a huge recognition and also a message of hope — that even private families, with patience and passion, can contribute to cultural heritage.

We are incredibly grateful for the support of the EEA and Norway Grants, which helped fund a significant part of the restoration. We also want to thank the Ministry of Culture of the Czech Republic and the South Bohemian Region for their long-standing support and encouragement.

Today, the fortress breathes again — and for us, that’s the greatest reward of all.

Yours truly,
The Durych Family