The House of Arts - SIBIU – from ruin to Cultural Hub

With a documented history dating back to 1370, the House of Arts in Sibiu has witnessed many of the city’s significant moments, managing to make its mark on the local urban development since the 16th century.

Even so, however, despite its cultural and historical value, the building located at 21st Small Market (Piața Mica) was in an advanced state of decay, which prevented it from being used to its true potential.

The structure of the building was in need of repair and the lack of adequate interventions jeopardized the preservation of this historic monument. Moreover, the lack of valorization of the house contributed to the loss of an important and central cultural space for the local community.

This is the context in which the need to revitalize and transform the House of Arts arose, in order to ensure the preservation and promotion of the traditional heritage, in the cultural spirit of Sibiu, recognized as a leading cultural center in Europe.

Supported by the EEA Grants 2014 - 2021, the 43-month project Restoration and revitalization of the historic monument House of Arts - Regional Activity and Resource Centre (C.A.R.R.) revitalized an undervalued central space, transforming it into a dynamic hub dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional heritage. With a grant of over 2.4 million euro, it aimed at an extensive restoration of the historic building, respecting the original features but adapting them to modern times.

Following its significant transformation, from this year the House of Arts will host exhibitions and events aimed at reconnecting visitors, locals and tourists with the history of Sibiu, as well as to valorize the beauty of traditional crafts, threatened by oblivion.

The creative hub also offers educational activities, exhibitions, training rooms and spaces for interactive initiatives. In addition, both students and teachers from Sibiu benefit from certifying their skills and exploring the exciting world of new, stimulating learning experiences.

Every visitor who steps in the House of Arts can enjoy a creative experience and journey, full of craftsmanship and cultural spirit. Through the active involvement of the local community, the project run by Astra Museum Sibiu has become a successful model of sustainable valorization of cultural heritage.