A New Milestone for Grad Castle: Funding Approved for Restoration and Natura 2000 Exhibition
15. 12. 2025
At the Goričko Nature Park Public Institute in addition to nature conservation tasks, we also manage Grad Castle, a cultural monument of national significance. With the aim of integrating the preservation of cultural heritage, nature conservation, and the development of sustainable tourism, we have secured European funding within the framework of the European Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027 (ECPP 2021–2027). These funds will be used to renovate the premises in the southwest and west wings of the castle, where an exhibition for the interpretation of Natura 2000 will be established over the next two years.
The project is implemented under the ECPP 2021–2027 Priority Axis – Green transition for climate neutrality, and the specific objective SC RSO 2.7 – Enhancing the protection and conservation of nature and biodiversity and green infrastructure, including in urban areas, and reducing all forms of pollution. The total value of the investment is estimated at approximately EUR 2.4 million, with the European Union contributing EUR 1,808,312 from the European Regional Development Fund and the Republic of Slovenia contributing approximately EUR 320,000.
The southwest wing of one of the largest castles in Slovenia will be dedicated to the interpretation of Natura 2000 J. Gantar
With this investment, we continue our efforts toward the comprehensive restoration of Grad Castle. The project “Restoration of Cultural Heritage for the Interpretation of Natura 2000 – Grad Castle (EŠD 159)” also ensures accessibility for persons with reduced mobility and enables high-quality interpretation of nature alongside the restoration of the cultural monument. It includes the revitalisation of a part of the building of outstanding cultural value, the reconstruction and renovation of premises in the southwest–west wing, and the restoration of original architectural elements in accordance with conservation guidelines.
As part of the project, six rooms will be renovated to host an exhibition, the arcaded corridor will be restored, an accessible route across the inner courtyard will be arranged, and a lifting platform will be installed to ensure accessibility for visitors with reduced mobility. The premises will feature a high-quality and comprehensive exhibition on Natura 2000, biodiversity, and the mosaic cultural landscape of the Goričko Nature Park.
Through this exhibition, we will further support the mission of our institution by carrying out public nature conservation services through raising awareness among residents and visitors to the area and the castle.
