In a striking revival of a centuries-old church, Ljubljana-based architectural firm Medprostor has seamlessly blended the old with the new. The 900-year-old monastic church, part of the upper monastery at Žiče Charterhouse in Slovenia, has been meticulously restored, balancing the preservation of its ancient heritage with innovative architectural interventions.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Portugal, Algarve
Architecture: Vasco Lima Mayer
Visuals: Filipe Vieira Borralho
Project: Arcos House
The church, which had fallen into disrepair by the late 18th century and saw its first restoration efforts in the 1960s, now boasts a folding roof and a breathtaking glass loft that appears to hover above the ruins. These modern additions by Medprostor breathe new life into the historic structure while respecting its ancient origins. The architecture firm’s thoughtful design choices have allowed for a chronological reading of the church’s rich history, preserving the intangible associations that have endured through the ages.
The restoration was commissioned by the Municipality of Slovenske Konjice, with a clear directive: protect and preserve the church’s remains while integrating new elements that honor its historical significance. Medprostor’s approach involved several key interventions, including the reconstruction of the demolished northern wall of the church. Alongside this, they introduced a glass loft that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, accessible via suspended spiral staircases. This loft, partially concealed by the old wall, seems to float, symbolizing the intersection of past and present.
The Žiče Charterhouse, founded by the Margrave of Styria, Otokar III, in the Romanesque period, holds immense historical and cultural significance. It was the first Carthusian monastery established outside of its native Romanesque sphere, marking an important chapter in European monastic history. The upper monastery, where the restoration took place, was once a vibrant complex of interconnected spaces, including the Great Cloister, Lesser Cloister, St. John the Baptist church, and more. The lower monastery, or Domus Inferior, served as a space for lay monks and included a hospice, library, and garden.
Medprostor’s design not only restores but reinterprets the church’s architecture, allowing visitors to experience the sacred space in a new light. The folding roof, a bold and functional addition, provides protection while maintaining the open, contemplative atmosphere of the original structure. Meanwhile, the glass loft stands as a testament to modern architectural innovation, offering a place for reflection with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
The restoration of the church at Žiče Charterhouse is more than a simple renovation; it’s a conversation between the past and the present. Medprostor’s work ensures that the church remains a living monument, one that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. The architectural firm’s success in balancing preservation with innovation is a testament to their skill and deep respect for the historical fabric of the site.
As the glass loft invites visitors to look out over the landscape, it also invites them to look back—across the centuries of history that have shaped the church, and forward, to the new narratives that will unfold within its walls. This restoration is not just about preserving a building, but about preserving and enriching the experience of the sacred space it represents.
In the end, Medprostor has created a space that honors the church’s past while opening up new possibilities for its future. It stands as a powerful example of how architecture can transcend time, blending the old with the new in ways that elevate both.
