Dialogue between history and modernity in the preservation of historical ruins: The case of Helfštýn Castle

The article examines contemporary architectural interventions at Helfštýn Castle in the Czech Republic, which illustrate an attempt to balance the preservation of historical heritage with the requirements of modernity. The castle, one of the largest in Central Europe, underwent a comprehensive restoration by the Czech architectural studio Atelier-r between 2017 and 2020. The work included structural stabilization, masonry repair, sandblasted glass roofing, and the introduction of modern architectural elements such as viewing platforms and pathways. The project was recognized for its creative approach and won numerous awards, including "Building of the Year 2021" in the Czech Republic. At the same time, it generated controversy, especially among conservation groups such as the Czech ICOMOS National Committee. Criticism included interference with the original historical substance, limited roofing exposing the ruins to deterioration, and the destruction of the building's late Gothic elements. The article highlights the complexity of the dialogue between tradition and modernity in the context of heritage conservation. Helfštýn Castle has become a symbol of the search for a balance between preserving authenticity and introducing contemporary functions and forms. The case study presented concludes on the challenges and opportunities of contemporary conservation, emphasizing the need for a delicate balance between preservation and adaptation of historical buildings.