Nebílovy Mansion

1998 World Monuments Watch

The unused country house is a regular sight throughout the Czech Republic. With many in grave states of disrepair, finding new uses for these palaces and mansions is a preservation challenge. Nebílovy Mansion, designed by J. B. Hildebrandt, one of the Hapsburg Empire's most distinguished architects, exemplifies the pure Baroque. It is a two-winged symmetrical structure with curvaceous roofs, bold massing of forms, an interplay of solids and voids, a bulbous cupola; the interiors have painted scenes by A. Tuvora in the style of Louis XVI. On the grounds is a decorative High Baroque garden whose containing wall includes niches and pavilions; elsewhere is a Renaissance fermenting house, later adapted into a granary. Unoccupied, left to the elements, the mansion continues to deteriorate. A four-year restoration plan has been drawn up and some repairs made, but structural stabilization, roof repairs of the rear wing, and restoration of the interior artwork have been suspended. Like many great houses throughout the Czech countryside, Nebílovy deserves to be reinfused with life and purpose.

Since the Watch

Rehabilitation of the Baroque mansion has taken place and the site is open for tours and for space rental. In recent years, the Tuvora wall and ceiling paintings in the ballroom have been undergoing restoration, set to be complete in 2012. January 2011