POLAND-RUSSIA Cross-border Cooperation Programme 2014–2020
POLAND-RUSSIA Cross-border Cooperation Programme 2014–2020
From the beginning of July works related to the renovation of the roof of the historic building of Podzamcze (Outer Castle) - eastern wing are underway at the Museum of Archeology and History in Elbląg. The funds for the renovation come from the project "Museums over the borders. Stage II”, co-financed by the European Union under the European Neighborhood Instrument. The building presents 5 permanent exhibitions showcasing the history of the city and the region. There are also warehouses for collections and research offices.
The history of this unique building probably dates back to the 14th century. The name of the facility - Podzamcze - is associated with its location in one of the outer wards of the former Teutonic castle complex - between today 's Wapienna street where the castle, demolished by the townspeople of Elbląg in 1454, was probably located and the complex of the Holy Spirit Hospital. The building is characterized by a simple compact body, typical of granaries. The surviving source materials report about the work on the building in the second half of the 16th century, further recorded reconstructions took place in the 18th and 19th centuries. The building changed its function many times: it was used e.g. as a warehouse or brewery (malt house). During World War II, the outer bailey complex was partially damaged, and the eastern wing was completely roofless. The ceilings between the storeys were destroyed, the basements in the northern part were filled with rubble. Around 1978, the reconstruction of the building began. In 1987, on the occasion of the 750th anniversary of the city of Elbląg, Podzamcze was opened to the Museum. The general renovation of the building took place in the years 2012-2014 and was carried out as part of a project co-financed by the European Union under the European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument. The renovation works did not cover the roof, which was in a satisfactory condition at the time. Currently, due to the insufficient condition of the sheathing, a decision has been made to renovate it.
As part of the investment, it is planned to replace damaged boarding elements and tiles, insulate the roof slope of the second floor and dormers, perform flashings and complete guttering. The works are carried out by the Elbląg company Brodziak Budownictwo. Thanks to these works, the historic building, which is one of the few spatial and construction relics of the former Teutonic castle complex, will be secured, and the museum collections located in the building will gain proper storage conditions. It will also be possible to continue the cultural, educational activities that have been fully conducted in the facility and its surroundings as well as popularize the region's cultural heritage.
The renovation of the museum’s roof has started
