Draft:Central Bohemian Museum in Roztoky

The Central Bohemian Museum, situated in Roztoky near Prague, is housed within the grounds of the historic Roztoky Castle and Brauner's Mill, located along the left bank of the Vltava River. Established in 1957, the museum has compiled an extensive collection that spans archaeology, natural sciences, history, art history, and ethnography, with significance that transcends the Central Bohemia region. Notably, it is recognized for its specialized conservation and restoration facilities, which are utilized by various museums, institutions, and individual collectors.The premises of Roztoky Castle feature numerous architecturally intriguing and historically important spaces that host exhibitions, cultural and educational events, social gatherings, and wedding ceremonies year-round. Surrounding the castle is a 19th-century park (now a protected heritage site) that boasts rare trees and is adorned with both historical and contemporary sculptures.Within the castle, visitors can explore two permanent exhibitions: "The Administration of the Manor: Life and Work of the Estate Manager," which recreates the ambiance of the estate manager's private quarters during the Liechtenstein era, and "Life in a Resort: The Roztoky Summer Residence," depicting summer retreats from the late19th to early 20th century.Nearby, the Brauner Mill complex features the permanent exhibition dedicated to Zdenka Braunerová, an artist whose life and work are closely tied to Roztoky. This exhibition offers insights into her artistic endeavors and personal life, as well as the cultural milieu in which she thrived. The studio she constructed was adjacent to her family villa, which is now the museum's administrative center. Historical Overview Roztoky Castle dates back to the late 13th century, originally built as a fortress in a defensively advantageous location between two waterways. The initial structure comprised a large central residential tower encircled by a robust outer wall, complete with a moat and rampart. A century later, significant Gothic renovations took place under the ownership of brothers Eberhard and Reinhard from Mühlhausen, leading to the removal of the central tower and the addition of palace buildings, gate passages, and a bay chapel. The15th century saw the completion of auxiliary farm and residential buildings within the castle's walls.In 1564, following an initiative by David Boryna of Lhota, the fortress was transformed into a Renaissance castle, adding a second story and expanding the bay chapel with Renaissance elements, while beginning the construction of arcades in the courtyard.The castle's prosperity waned following the confiscation and forced sale of the Boryň family's estate due to their involvement in the estate uprising against the emperor. In1623, the Liechtenstein family acquired ownership for the next 180 years. Though not used as a main residence, the castle served for managing the estate. Following damages from conflicts and a fire in 1639, the castle underwent only minimal necessary repairs. Throughout the18th century, further enhancements included the completion of arcades and continued development of the bay chapel and supporting structures.At the beginning of the19th century, the estate was purchased by university professor Josef Mader, and later in 1839, the Leder couple acquired it, maintaining ownership until the early 20th century. During this period, the roof underwent repairs, and neo-Gothic modifications were made to the bay windows, adapting the castle for rental purposes.After 1948, the estate was nationalized, but the deteriorating structure faced potential demolition. This fate was averted by the initiative of the State Monuments Office and local history advocates, culminating in the establishment of the District Museum of National History, which became centered in the castle. Archaeological and architectural surveys revealed numerous Gothic and Renaissance elements, clarifying the original appearance of the medieval fortress. Subsequent renovations aimed to restore the castle's Renaissance appearance.A significant flood in 2002 caused damage that prompted a comprehensive reconstruction of the castle. This work, conducted between2011 and2013, culminated in the opening of new historical exhibitions to the public in2014.The Central Bohemian Museum in Roztoky, one of the youngest regional museums, originated from years of efforts by dedicated local history enthusiasts. This led to the establishment of the National History Department in1953 and the opening of the National History Museum Hall in Tiché údolí two years later.In addition to acquiring museum artifacts and developing facilities for their preservation, the history department engaged in extensive educational activities, collaborating with various volunteers and professional heritage organizations. A notable initiative included a comprehensive plan to restore the dilapidated castle.On August1,1957, the District National History Museum was officially founded in Roztoky Castle. Initially managed by the Department of Local Studies of the Enlightenment Conference, (the period from 1957 to1961)