Bánffy Castle
Bánffy Castle is one of the well-preserved examples of late 19th-century noble architecture in Transylvania. Located in Răscruci, a rural village near Cluj-Napoca, the estate forms part of a wider historic landscape. The present appearance of the building dates largely to the period between 1875 and 1885, when Baron Ádám Bánffy reshaped the residence. The interiors survived the 20th century with much of their original decoration intact.
After nationalisation in 1948, the building was used as a school from 1967 until the early 2000s. The last significant restoration works date from the 1960s. After its closure in 2005, the lack of heating and maintenance led to progressive deterioration, particularly of the interiors and decorative elements.
The restoration project began in 2018 and was completed in 2023. Its aims were to return the castle and its surroundings to the appearance of the noble estate created by Ádám Bánffy, adapt it for use as a cultural centre and support local development by attracting visitors.
Extensive preliminary studies were undertaken, including historical research, façade investigation, analysis of historic paint layers and finishes, archaeological and biological studies, and a tree survey of the park.
The original layout and ornamental details of the building were retained. Wooden panelling, carved ceilings, historic doors and windows, fireplaces, terracotta stoves, stained glass and sculptural elements were conserved. Lime-based mortars and plasters were used instead of cement. The works relied on traditional materials and craft techniques. During the works, previously unknown decorative ceilings and Baroque stone frames were uncovered and restored in situ.
The surrounding park was rehabilitated on the basis of archival images and site analysis. The water basin, canal and lake were restored, urns were conserved or recreated after historic models, and the Japanese-style floating dovecote was reconstructed.
The castle and park are open to local residents, visitors and specialists, with public events and educational activities taking place on site. A long-term management framework has been established to ensure its continued maintenance and use. Accessibility measures include adapted parking and lift access for visitors with reduced mobility. A 3D digital model of the castle has been produced and made publicly available.
The project was implemented by Cluj County Council and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Regional Operational Programme 2014–2020.
The Awards’ Jury remarked: “The restoration project of the Bánffy Castle demonstrates how a neglected aristocratic estate can be reintegrated into contemporary community life. Its integral approach restored the building, the gardens and the landscape as one coherent ensemble, while encouraging long-term stewardship, skills development and strong local involvement in a rural context.”
Contact: Tulogdy László | Ektra Studio Srl. | tulogdy@ektra.ro | www.ektra.ro