Germany's prominent castle faces a severe funding shortage.
Schloss Friedenstein in Gotha, Germany, is set to undergo a significant renovation, marking the first comprehensive overhaul of the building since its construction over 400 years ago. The initial phase of the project will focus on the two side wings of the castle complex, and it will also include the West Tower, North Wing, and the park with the orangery.
The renovation of Friedenstein Castle is part of the federal government's increased cultural budget for 2025, which stands at 2.25 billion euros overall. The castle will receive 50 million euros from a special program, with the possibility of additional funding in the future. However, the exact amount required for the complete renovation has not been publicly specified.
The director of Friedenstein Castle, Doris Fischer, has acknowledged that the entire castle cannot be renovated due to its size and complex damage patterns. She has estimated the renovation cost to be between 300 to 500 million euros, although this figure is still speculative.
The Stiftung Thueringer Schloesser und Gaertner, which manages Schloss Friedenstein among other properties, has received a total of 100 million euros each from a special investment program by the federal and state governments for 13 of its 31 properties. This investment suggests a commitment to preserving and restoring Germany's historic buildings.
The renovation project is expected to be completed by 2032, after which a follow-up project will be necessary to address any remaining issues. The renovation work is a significant step towards preserving Schloss Friedenstein for future generations to enjoy.
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The renovation of Schloss Friedenstein, which encompasses the home-and-garden lifestyle, is a critical component of the federal government's increased cultural budget for 2025, allotting 50 million euros for this purpose. Aiming to preserve and restore Germany's historic buildings, this investment also signifies a dedication to maintaining the lifestyle and charm of historical properties like Friedenstein Castle.