The old maps are a repository of invaluable information on how a region, country or settlement has changed throughout centuries, what geopolitical influences were there, the flux of cultural norms and way of life. That is even more poignant in places like Southeast Europe, an area of convergence of many civilisations, empires and native communities influencing each other, facts wonderfully captured on the old maps of the region. These are reflected ultimately in the most visible elements of the local identity, the buildings, their architecture and styles. Thus the old maps are an essential source for the student of architectural history. In this video I use maps from my antique maps collection, specialised on the Balkans and the Black Sea areas.
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My aim, through this series of blog articles, is to inspire appreciation of the historic houses of Romania and Southeast Europe, a virtually undiscovered, but fascinating chapter of world’s architectural history and heritage.
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If you have a historic house project in Romania or other country in Southeast Europe, I would be delighted to advise you in aspects pertaining to its architectural history and ways to preserve as much as possible from its period fabric and aesthetics in the course of restoration or renovation works, or to counsel you with specialist consultancy work related to that project. To discuss your particular plan please see my contact details in the Contact page of this website.
Valentin Mandache, architectural historian 