The historic Urbarial House in Santana, built in 1749, has undergone an impressive restoration funded by the European Union. This landmark, once home to one of the earliest gymnasium schools in Europe and a site for tax collection for Vienna, has been revamped into a vibrant cultural centre featuring two museums. This monumental transformation, completed in 2021 and costing 8.7 million lei, adds a cultural gem to the town’s landscape.
Daniel Tomuta, the mayor of Santana, announced that the Urbarial House now boasts a total area of 1,879 square meters dedicated to cultural activities. Within its walls, a conference hall named after town benefactor Margareta Bibics awaits, along with spaces for music, dance, workshops, and school clubs. The cultural centre promises to stimulate creativity and community engagement.
This historic site’s roots run deep, once serving as an educational institution for noble children. After weathering a fire in 1858, it was rebuilt and continued its function as a school into the 20th century, adapting over the years to accommodate community activities and even hosting an Orthodox church post-1990. The Urbarial House’s rich history adds depth to its new cultural mission.
The Urbarial House’s historical significance is highlighted by its role in the collection of feudal rents before the 1848 Revolution. Following exploitative practices against peasants, a new social policy was initiated in the early 18th century to address these issues. Empress Maria Theresa’s urbarial regulation in 1765 played a crucial role in improving the economic conditions for serfs, paving the way for a transformed local economy that this building symbolizes.
The total cost of restoration reached 8,709,000 lei, with a significant portion being non-refundable EU funds sourced from the Regional Operational Programme (Regio-ROP) 2014-2020. The revitalization of the Urbarial House stands as a testament to the power of cultural heritage and the commitment to preserving historical landmarks for future generations.
The Urbarial House in Santana, a 1749 monument, has been transformed into a cultural centre with EU funding, costing 8.7 million lei. The project includes two museums highlighting local history and ethnography, alongside community spaces for activities. Mayor Daniel Tomuta stated the historic building will enhance cultural engagement in the area.
The successful restoration of the Urbarial House in Santana as a cultural centre represents a significant achievement in preserving local history. With the inclusion of museums, creative spaces, and community engagement opportunities, this landmark not only reflects the town’s rich heritage but also aims to foster a vibrant cultural scene that honors its past while looking to the future.
Original Source: agerpres.ro
