Photos: Szabóné Zsedrovits Enikő

Source, the full article can be read here: DUOL.hu

 

“Palkovics Milán mentioned that this is a special space, and the spectacular construction was accompanied by challenges. The work was complicated by technical necessities, and they also had to battle with rainy and windy weather. To cover the courtyard, they manufactured the steel structural elements in their own plant (a total of about 25 tons of steel structure were used). The interior courtyard facade was fully renovated, a fire alarm system was installed, and parts of the electrical network were upgraded and expanded. A small exhibition space and restroom facilities were also created, which involved mechanical work.

 

The artworks in the courtyard had to be moved and stored safely during the renovation. However, they were not small relics that could be held in hand but large objects like the original Lajos stones, each weighing up to one and a half tons. Their removal was relatively simple, as they were able to lift them using a crane while the courtyard was still open. The glass panels covering the roof were also placed in position with a crane, but after that, it was not possible to return the stones in the same way. They could have brought them through the side entrance, but the ramp leading up was narrow. They solved the issue by manufacturing a special ramp in their own locksmith workshop, specifically for this purpose, allowing the loader to enter and place the artworks back. These large-scale tasks fell right during the autumn period, so the cold, rain, wind, and mud created obstacles for the technically complex processes.

 

As part of the project, they built the new roof, constructed a new accessible ramp for the side entrance, renovated the fence and windows, replaced the glass, and installed a stairlift for guests with disabilities. The work has now been completed, and both the contractor and the museum director are pleased with the final result. In response to our question, Farkas Lajos mentioned that, regardless of the construction, archaeological, inventory, and restoration work continued as usual, and they organized exhibitions, lectures, and museum educational activities (both parties carefully ensured that the visitors of the institution experienced as little disruption as possible from the ongoing work). The director shared that, with his colleagues, they often marveled at certain aspects of the construction process, such as the replacement of the stones, where every millimeter counted. They are satisfied with the final result, as now the courtyard can be fully utilized.”