Romer's house

Goals

Our goal is to restore the building in a way that respects its unique historical, architectural, and artistic values to the greatest extent possible, while finding an appropriate use for it that will further enhance these values and help share them with others.

History

Zámočnícka Street is one of the oldest medieval streets of Bratislava. The street name is derived from the artisans - locksmiths who lived here in the 15th century. The townhouse on Zámočnícka 10 was built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style, later expanded in Baroque style. In 19th century the façade was restyled in classical order and corridor gallery was added to the courtyard façade. The house was used for living, except the ground floor which was adapted for commercial purposes. Later the façade was restored to its original form with the corners of buildings emphasised by rusticated painted quoins.

The House is known as a birthplace of Florián František Rómer (1815 Bratislava – 1889 Oradea, Romania) – a noted archaeologist, historian, scientist, university professor and church dignitary. He was professor at the Academy in Bratislava and Budapest, he also worked as a curator at Hungarian National Museum. He was one of the founders of modern Hungarian archaeology and founding member of the Hungarian Historical Society.

Restoration

We have chosen a programme of gradual renovation to achieve a successful renessaince of the burgher house where the famous Kingdom of Hungary archeologist, historian and nature scientist Florián F. Rómer was born.

What did we do?

I. phase (2014 -2015) During this phase, the following activities occurred: beginning of communication with KPÚ (Regional Sight Office) in Bratislava, inventarisation of sightworthy elements, working on project documentation, carrying out accurate measurements, and acquiring building approval for the above-ground levels I. and II.

II. phase (2016) In 2016, the following activities were completed: renewing of the original arches and openings, renewing of the entrance gate, new window openings, renewing of the balcony, renewing of the original floor levels, removal of unneccessary building supplements (air technique), building new restrooms, renewing of doors and door frames, renewing of original wooden staircase, new heating, water and electricity supply.

Further Steps Planned

Gradually, other parts of the site will be renovated, including the roof with its Baroque dormers, the original rafters, the basement area with the original Renaissance staircase, the Renaissance façade, and other elements.

The renovation of the courtyard will be carried out as a separate phase. The existing asphalt will be removed, and 70 concrete ties will be installed. After lowering the level of the courtyard, landscaping work will be carried out and a suitable green area with outdoor seating will be created.

The building was partially opened to the public by the end of 2016. However, its complete renovation is expected to take approximately another 10 years and will be carried out alongside the continued use of the already renovated areas.

Ecological aspects A special aim we have is utilizing the rainwater. The realization of this depends on a sensitive approach, voluntary work and also professional cooperation. 

Applications

The question of future use is very important in the context of preserving the results of the renovation. The partners plan to interpret and present the building as a significant part of Bratislava’s cultural and architectural heritage, with a particular focus on the personality of Florián František Rómer, who was born in this house in 1815 and regularly returned to visit it until his death in 1889.

Our aim is to make the building and selected rooms accessible to the public and to visitors to Bratislava. One part of the building will house an exhibition dedicated to F. F. Rómer. The building will also be home to the Landscape and Garden Culture Centre and the Centre for Assistance to Owners of Historic Buildings and Sites.

At present, you can find a cosy café, U Rómera, here. Our future plans also include a restaurant offering local cuisine. The courtyard will be used for cultural events, concerts, readings and lectures. Young artists will also have the opportunity to display their work here.

The smaller area next to the main entrance is planned to serve as a meeting room for NT members, as well as a local souvenir shop and a mini-gallery.

News

Rómerov dom ožíva! »

Národný Trust n.o. otvára brány Rómerovho domu na Zámočníckej ulici č. 10 v Bratislave. I. etapa obnovy renesančného meštianskeho domu je pomaly za nami.

12.02.2018

Partners

Offer

We offer a short-term hire of unique historical premises at Rómer’s House in Zámočnícka Street 10 in Bratislava. These premises are suitable for organising cultural, social and educational activities, meetings and discussions.

The profit from the premises hire is used for maintenance and further renovation of Rómer’s House.

The premises available for hire are: the coffee rooms, the historical Rómer’s room, the inner yard with the inner gateway and unique cellars.   

In case of educational and not commercial and charity event we can offer price reductions up to 80 % of the given prices. 

Catering is offered primarly in co-operation with our local café U Rómera. It is possible to bring your own catering but consequently the rental prices would be higher than are in our basic price list. 

All details and specific hire conditions are agreed individually at a personal meeting. 

Contact

nt@nt.sk  

+421 907296 724