In January 2023, the owner of „Casa Frusina,” a 100-year-old house in Corbeanca, Romania, put the house up for sale along with the now valuable land it sat on. Radu Stefanescu, a local man who loves old buildings that define Romania’s regions, was lucky because the owner also wanted to preserve the house but was an elderly gentleman and didn’t have the financial or physical ability to do so. At the end of the 19th century, Corbeanca was home to 1,000 people who lived in 254 houses similar to the one Stefanescu spotted for sale.
As an adult, Stefanescu made it his mission to save old houses that were fast disappearing across Romania. On condition that the house would be restored and made available to the public, the house owner agreed to donate his former home. A team of volunteers, including lawyers, university professors, businessmen, and pilots, came forward to help restore the building. Many of the volunteers had no experience in construction, let alone the specialised skills needed for adobe mud building or decorative woodworking, but they learned on the go.
Work on the house is now largely complete, aside from some of the woodwork, which is on track to be finished in December. After that, the house will be officially donated to the Corbeanca community, and various activities for children are being planned inside the building.
Preserving the architectural character of cities and rural areas in Central Eastern Europe is crucial for cultural identity, tourism, and sustainable development. The region boasts a rich tapestry of architectural styles reflecting its diverse history.
Preserving historical buildings, from medieval castles to certain communist-era structures, maintains a tangible link to the past. Architectural heritage attracts tourists, contributing to the local economy. Additionally, well-preserved urban and rural landscapes enhance the quality of life for residents, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. Striking a balance between modernization and heritage conservation ensures a harmonious and culturally rich environment for present and future generations.
