Discussions in Cēsis About the Restoration of Historic Buildings

The president of the Latvian Association of Architects, Artūrs Lapiņš, emphasizes that Cēsis undeniably has a wonderful old town: "I myself had a professional connection with Cēsis Castle — I designed the castle square and the new castle area about 20 years ago. The old town also has many historic buildings that need to be studied, preserved, and developed to adapt them for modern functions and needs."

Architects face the challenge of finding balance between the old and the new. However, the restoration of historic buildings comes with various limitations and challenges. Living standards have changed over time — nowadays, we want to live in dry and warm homes. A hundred years ago, buildings were constructed differently, with other materials and possibilities. Modern technology allows for the introduction of advanced heating and ventilation systems, yet the architect’s skill lies in doing so without losing the historical value of the building.

The chairman of the Cēsis Municipality Council, Jānis Rozenbergs (Unity), notes that restoring historic buildings is an expensive process: "It’s a process full of surprises. When you start reconstruction, you may find that something is damaged. Archaeological research can also play a role — for example, the company Draugiem Group was digging cellars in the Konrāds Quarter, and archaeologists had a lot of work there too. That, in turn, makes the process longer. In historic centers, there are strict building regulations regarding height and materials, which also limit construction possibilities."

One of the most successful examples of historic building restoration in Cēsis is Konrāds Quarter. The project involves restoring four historic buildings, the first of which — the former pastor’s house — has already been completed. The restoration has been made possible thanks to entrepreneurs who purchase land and buildings, investing their own resources in preserving the city’s historical heritage.

Standing by the restored pastor’s house, the head of the Cēsis Municipal Construction Board, Vija Gēme, explains that the building was repaired with great care:"Architect Pēteris Blūms carried out a very detailed and careful study of this building. Many historical features that couldn’t be placed anywhere else have been preserved. When you enter, you can see that all the historical traces of the building have been maintained."

However, there are still many historic buildings in Cēsis that await restoration. Against the backdrop of newly renovated houses, they stand out and can spoil the overall cityscape.

Vija Gēme points to one such building near Spīda

las House in Cēsis:"This is a property that just stands there. It hinders overall development. The private owners have been approached many times to sell or renovate the building. There are promises, but nothing is done. Any action requires large financial investments. If, in this case, there’s no money, then one should consider selling — because if nothing is done, the property will decay."

Initiatives to restore historic buildings serve as a good example for other owners as well. Cēsis Municipality Council chairman Jānis Rozenbergs (Unity) notes that the situation in recent years has become much more promising than it was ten years ago:"There are several reasons for that. Of course, issues of ownership, resources, understanding, and perhaps also the influence of good examples. Now that several properties in the Cēsis old town have been beautifully restored, it inspires and sets an example for other owners. As a result, ownership sometimes changes hands — properties end up with those who have the means, the will, and the understanding to restore them. Consequently, the old town environment changes, and the buildings are renewed," he emphasizes.

Attitudes toward historic buildings in Cēsis are gradually changing. Many no longer see them merely as opportunities for profit, but as contributions to the city’s identity and sense of belonging. These are not business projects but expressions of faith that the value of Cēsis Old Town lies in its history and in the people who preserve it.