Diocesan Cultural Centre in Bierzgłowo Castle
About this good practice
The practice addresses the challenge of preserving and revitalizing Zamek Bierzgłowski (Bierzgłowo Castle), a historic Teutonic castle, while making it accessible for modern cultural, educational, and spiritual activities. The need for this initiative arose due to the castle’s deterioration over time, after its repurposing from a fortress to a retreat house and care home. Following its return to the Diocese of Toruń in 1992 and renovations, the Diocesan Cultural Centre (DCC) was launched in 2001 to restore the site’s historical significance while adapting it for contemporary needs.
The DCC achieves its objectives by integrating cultural, educational, and spiritual activities with sustainable tourism and community engagement, balancing preservation and generating revenue for ongoing maintenance.
Implementation Approach:
1. Restoration and Conservation: The castle underwent extensive renovations to preserve its medieval features. Financial support for these efforts was secured through grants.
2. Diverse Activities and Offerings: The DCC offers guided tours, religious activities, cultural events, and hospitality services. It collaborates with local authorities on regional tourism projects, like cycling tours.
Main Stakeholders: Diocese of Toruń, local authorities, cultural and educational institutions.
Main Beneficiaries: Local community, families, tourists, religious groups, and event organizers.
Resources needed
Grants for Bierzgłowski Castle 2016-2023 (conservation, restoration work)PLN 488 098.
Human resources are 5 people: hotel staff (1 person), cooks (two people), housekeeping worker (1 person), manager (1 person).
The funds for the activities come from the economic activities of the DCC.
Evidence of success
This practice is regarded as highly successful for several reasons:
*Increased tourist visits, raising awareness of Teutonic heritage.
*Diverse offerings, including religious retreats, cultural events, and corporate gatherings, ensuring year-round engagement.
*Financial sustainability, with revenue from hospitality services and event hosting.
*Community involvement, with local partnerships and regional tourism initiatives.
*Preservation of heritage, with ongoing conservation supported by grants.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice is potentially valuable for other regions as it demonstrates how a historic site can be revitalized for cultural, religious, and economic purposes. Key success factors include:
• Multifunctionality – Combining religious, cultural, and commercial activities attracts a wide audience.
• Sustainable financing – Generating income from tourism, events, and hospitality reduces reliance on public funding.
• Community engagement – Collaborating with local authorities and businesses strengthens regional identity and tourism.
• Heritage preservation – Balancing historical conservation with modern use ensures long-term sustainability.
Potential transfer challenges include securing initial funding, adapting to different historical or cultural contexts, and maintaining consistent visitor interest.
This model could be adapted in other historical sites across Europe, particularly in regions with unused heritage buildings seeking new cultural and economic purposes.
Further information
Diocesan Cultural Centre in Bierzgłowo Castle
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Good practice owner
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