MODERN USE OF HISTORICAL CASTLES WITH UNDERGROUND PREMISES (ON EXAMPLES OF CASTLES IN OŚWIĘCIM AND ŠPILBERK IN BRNO)

The article is devoted to the history of two castles in Oświęcim and Špilberk in Brno and their modern adaptation to museum functions. The stages of the formation of fortifications, the specifics of the architectural and compositional solution and planning are studied. Today, the castles in Oświęcim and Špilberk in Brno operate as museums representing the history of the cities and the castle itself. A special feature is the presence of underground premises that date back to the times of Austrian rule. The mission of the museums is to popularize the history of Oświęcim and Brno, the heritage, traditions and culture of the cities. For this purpose, the protection of cultural values, the documentation of historical facts and the collection of archaeological, historical and ethnographic exhibits related to Oświęcim, the Oświęcim region and Brno are ensured. Each of the museums conducts extensive exhibition and publishing activities. The idea of creating museum exhibits is to show the complex and centuries-old history of the cities of Oświęcim and Brno. Both castle museums cooperate with numerous museums, educational and cultural institutions in popularizing history.