Mahrenberg Palace (EID 1-04824) – comprehensive renovation of the castle and the park
On Sunday, September 13, 2026, a ceremonial opening of the permanent exhibitions and the renovated Mahrenberg castle with the park took place in Radlje ob Dravi.
The palace was built at the end of the 17th century from the former castle grounds and was repeatedly remodeled in later centuries. Initially, it consisted of four tracts around the inner courtyard, but today it is preserved as a one-story building in the shape of an L. It is surrounded by a park designed in the 18th century, when exotic trees and flowers were planted in the landscape style. A greenhouse or orange garden was also built next to the castle.
In more recent times, interventions in the castle and park have been carried out on a case-by-case basis, in line with the needs of the users at each time. The comprehensive renovation of the castle and park, which took place between 2024 and 2026, was prompted by the needs of a new purpose and design for the Cultural and Forest Center of the Upper Drava Valley. It was based on conservation principles with architectural interventions, and the park was maintained in its landscape style; a venue for events was added on the western side of the park, directly adjacent to the castle courtyard.
The restored manor house, together with the park and the Kalvarija hill, constitute a unique environmental complex in the immediate vicinity.
The renovation was carried out in close collaboration between the designers of Arrea d.o.o., construction, craft and archaeological contractors, supervision, the investor and the professional workers of the Maribor regional unit of the institute. (responsible conservator Nina Nahtigal with colleagues Miran Krivec, mag. Nastja Nylaander, Mihela Kajzer and Gorazd Gerlič).
