The restoration of the façade of Český Krumlov State Castle was awarded the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage/Europa Nostra Awards for conservation 2008 in June 2008 and the national award ceremony recently took place in Český Krumlov.

The prize is awarded by the European Commission along with Europa Nostra, the pan-European federation for cultural heritage.

The awarded project establishes new standards for Czech monument care and is appreciated as an excellent example of a respectful approach to conservation in Europe.

"The European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage Europa Nostra 2008 goes to a project which has launched an entirely new trend in the preservation of historical monuments in the Czech Republic. It is often quoted as en example of a sensitive approach to conservation of a highly authentic monument. This restoration of the southern façade of Český Krumlov’s hallmark is one of the largest conservation projects in the Czech Republic. Another significant feature of this project is an innovative approach, using conservation techniques and ethical approach previously only applied to restoration of art work to the area of care of historical monuments as well. The European Union Prize committee has also praised the restoration team for uncovering a wealth of information during the restoration work, contributing to better knowledge of this monument and clarifying a number of previously unknown chapters on building development and techniques from its 500-year long history. The approach to restoration, with preferential usage of traditional building crafts and technologies in order to preserve authentic historical construction features and materials, has also been well appreciated”, says Mr. Pavel Jerie, Director General of the National Institute for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage.

In addition to the Český Krumlov restoration project, this year's Europa Nostra Awards in the implemented projects category also went to the con servation project of an archeological site in Skarkos on the island of Ios (Greece) and the renovation of the Van Nelle Factory in Rotterdam (the Netherlands). Various prominent undertakings from Spain, the Netherlands and Romania have also received prizes. In addition to the six prizes, 21 medals were also awarded. In total 109 projects were nominated across all categories from 29 countries.

The Castle of Český Krumlov has already received the highest Europa Nostra award in the year 2002. This prize, awarded in the Art Collections category, went to the project of restoring and presenting the artifacts of the Český Krumlov Castle Theatre collection. The jury has commended an excellent restoration job including on various artifacts including scene decorations, technical background and costumes uniquely preserved in a large extent in their original location.