Michal Farník, President of the Association of Owners of Castles and Châteaux, reveals how he takes care of Czech castles and châteaux and why their history continues to fascinate people even in the modern world.
🖊 Ivana Bednářová | archiv Michal Farník
What role does the Association of Castle and Château Owners play in today’s preservation and development of
historic seats in the Czech Republic? How many properties does it involve, and who are the people behind them?
Today, the Association primarily functions as a platform that bridges the gap between owners of historic properties, facilitating the exchange of expertise while acting as a unified voice in negotiations with state authorities. It is not merely about conservation for its own sake, but about striking a delicate balance between preservation and viable, sustainable operation. We represent dozens of properties and their owners, a number that continues to grow. While the vast majority of owners are from the Czech Republic, we are seeing an increasing presence of international investors.
The public often envisions life in a château as a romantic dream. What is it like in real life, and what proves to be the greatest challenge during restoration?
The reality is considerably less idyllic. A historic seat is a living organism that demands relentless care, investment and time. Beyond the physical reconstruction itself, one must tackle day-to-day operations and administration, navigate bureaucracy, as well as constantly source and secure funding. The greatest challenge lies in the sheer convergence of these factors: prohibitive costs, complex legislation and the long-term nature of the entire endeavour. One simply cannot embark on such a project without immense patience and a robust vision.
What models of utilisation prevail today, and is there a growing appetite for historic spaces?
Most owners now opt for a hybrid model. These historic properties serve as venues for accommodation, cultural events, weddings or corporate retreats. Use solely for private purposes is very much the exception, as it is economically difficult to sustain. Yet, the appetite for historic spaces is surging, particularly from companies and institutions seeking an authentic environment with a sense of atmosphere and heritage.
You are the owner of Neustupov Château yourself. What drew you to this project, and what was your motivation for seeing it through?
Neustupov Château spoke to me through its history and its untapped potential. From the outset, it was clear that this was a project that defied conventional economic logic. Nevertheless, I sensed a deeper value. My motivation was a desire to restore dignity to this site and open its doors to the public once more. The renovation was arduous, but that only makes it more rewarding to see the château vibrant with life again today, where people are gathering and writing new stories.
How do you envision the future for private castles and châteaux, and what changes could the state implement?
I see a future defined by openness, collaboration and sustainability. Historic properties cannot function in a vacuum. They require meaningful links to society, the local region and the economy. Partnerships with the state are also of paramount importance. The government could provide significant assistance by fostering a more stable and predictable environment, streamlining legislation and offering greater support for restoration efforts.
Do you believe the younger generation will have the stomach to take on the responsibility for these seats? And why, in your view, does it make sense to save these monuments at all?
The younger generation certainly has the interest, but they require the right conditions to thrive. Managing a historic property is a monumental undertaking, and without a degree of support the risk is simply too great for many. That said, I am confident that a new generation can bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy.
