Fortunately, the era when cultural monuments were viewed as relics of the past, symbols of oppression and extravagance of the nobility, bourgeoisie, and clergy has passed. Today, we no longer see ourselves as progressive builders who ignore the past; rather, we strive to build upon the quality of life and cultural wealth of our ancestors. The restoration of monuments is no longer overshadowed by modern construction; instead, it has become a prestigious endeavor, often topping architectural competitions. This reflects not only the attractiveness of the subject but, more importantly, a shift in the perception of monuments by investors, who see hope for the future embedded in the legacy of the past. The Czech Republic is a place of exceptional architectural heritage – from majestic castles and chateaux to impressive ecclesiastical buildings and fascinating technical monuments. These treasures are an integral part of European history and offer us a glimpse into the thoughts, values, worldview, and efforts of our predecessors.

In our Studio of Historic Preservation, we believe that studying history and heritage conservation is crucial for educating well-rounded architects. Architecture is a synthesis of art and technology, and a deep understanding of the past is essential for responsible and creative work in the present. Ignoring history is a sign of immaturity. An architect who does not consider the historical context deprives themselves of a valuable source of inspiration and learning. Therefore, in our studio, we focus on developing critical thinking and the ability to view history as a living part of architecture. The curriculum in the Studio of Historic Preservation is structured to ensure that students gain knowledge and skills in heritage conservation. In addition to theoretical instruction, students actively participate in practical activities. They engage in research tasks, practical surveys at the beginning of architectural design studios, and develop project documentation as part of their bachelor’s theses, mastering both traditional and modern preservation technologies.

The Studio of Historic Preservation thus creates a space for the convergence of the past and present. We believe that studying history and heritage conservation is key to developing responsible and creative architects who can design with respect for tradition while addressing the needs and challenges of the 21st century.