My accommodation, Ruttner Haz

Here's an English summary and translation of the information board.
Overview

Ruttner House is one of Veszprém's important historic townhouses. After decades of neglect and deterioration, it has been carefully restored and given a new purpose while preserving its historical character. The building reflects several centuries of architectural development and is closely connected with the prosperous Ruttner family, who were influential merchants and civic leaders in the 19th century.

History of the Building

The house stands on foundations that date back to the medieval period, with parts built into the castle hill.

The present appearance developed mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, with Baroque and Classical architectural elements.

The Ruttner family owned the property for much of the 19th century. The best-known owner, Sándor Ruttner, expanded both the building and his successful grocery and spice business.

The house contained shops at street level and comfortable living quarters above.

Over time it was enlarged, remodelled and decorated with painted interiors and ornamental façades.

After the Second World War the building was nationalised and divided into several flats. Poor-quality alterations and lack of maintenance led to serious deterioration.

Restoration began after 2009, with extensive conservation work eventually completed as part of Veszprém's urban renewal projects and preparations connected with the European Capital of Culture (EKF) programme.

Restoration of the Interior

The lower panel describes the restoration of the painted interiors.

Key points include:

Conservation investigations carried out from 2005 onwards uncovered many original decorative wall paintings that had been hidden beneath later layers of plaster and paint.

Particularly significant discoveries were made in the entrance hall, staircase, corridor and upstairs reception room.

Conservators carefully cleaned, stabilised and preserved the surviving artwork.

Rather than repainting everything, they chose a restrained conservation approach so visitors can distinguish between the original decoration and restored sections.

The restored rooms reveal elegant 19th-century decorative painting, including architectural motifs, floral patterns and ornamental designs that demonstrate the high standard of craftsmanship in the house.

Summary

Ruttner House is an excellent example of Veszprém's historic urban architecture. Once the home and business of a prominent merchant family, it later fell into disrepair before being painstakingly restored. Today it serves as a cultural and heritage building, with its preserved architecture and rediscovered decorative wall paintings offering visitors a glimpse into the city's prosperous 19th-century past.Read more