The educational centre is operated by the Porta Speciosa association and the Association for Wallpainters and Decorators, and has been equipped with state-of-the-art tools in the field of maintenance and preservation of tangible cultural heritage. So far, 160 teachers and professionals have attended courses in building diagnostics, methods and applications; building injuries; façade renovation and preservation, and ecological architecture. This kind of knowledge is indispensable for preserving old buildings.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Norway`s ambassador to Hungary Siri Ellen Sletner underlined the importance of cultural heritage preservation as a basis for identity and a sense of belonging. "Cultural heritage creates understanding of traditions, as well as premises for how society should evolve further. It enriches us as a society and individuals, and provides a basis for identity and values," the ambassador said.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Ambassador Sletner and the chairmen of the two associations operating the centre painted the last three missing dots in the centre's mural, depicted above.
Photo: Guri M. Smenes, Royal Norwegian Embassy, Budapest.