Reconstruction

The present-day appearance of the castle and the condition of its monument are the result of continuous work carried out over the past years and decades. During this period, the castle area has been enclosed, and developments serving visitors have been implemented, including the creation of an event space, a lapidarium, and basic catering facilities. As a result of funding awarded within the framework of the KDOP-2.1.1/D-12 project, the continuation of earlier reconstruction works—based on prior research—has become possible, alongside further conservation and restoration activities. In several cases, these works are being carried out on the basis of plans that had already received official approval in earlier phases. Within the framework of the project, the “Teacher’s House” (Tanárház) is also being upgraded to ensure accessibility, and its exhibition is being renewed. Main elements of the development: Renovation of the access road leading to the castle Installation of information points at the entrance area Reconstruction and partial elevation of the gate towers and certain sections of the castle walls Development of the lapidarium and exhibition spaces Construction of a blacksmith workshop and service buildings Installation of movable stage elements for events Reconstruction of residential buildings and the development of heating systems Installation and expansion of the electrical network Restoration and presentation of the chapel and the kitchen-bakery building Creation of a herb garden Installation of surveillance cameras and decorative lighting Archaeological excavations carried out outside the castle walls Accessibility improvements and the installation of new exhibition models in the Teacher’s House Visitor services and digital developments: In addition to physical reconstruction works, several visitor-oriented and audiovisual developments are being implemented as part of the project: Audio guide devices available at the ticket office Installation of interactive tools and educational films A remote viewing system enabling access for visitors with limited mobility A camera-based system allowing virtual exploration of areas that are otherwise difficult to access 3D visual presentations illustrating historical events (for example, the explosion of the Benedictine tower) Objectives of the project: The primary goals of the development include: Reducing the seasonality of tourism Increasing visitor numbers Preserving the built heritage Creating new employment opportunities Ensuring that the castle operates as a year-round tourist attraction The project is implemented with nearly HUF 302 million in funding and contributes to strengthening the tourism potential of the region, as well as to the development of cultural and heritage tourism. Long-term vision: The aim of the municipality is to develop Szigliget Castle into a key destination for cultural tourism, meeting modern visitor expectations while promoting cultural diversity.