Magazine | REALPORTICO

REALPORTICO Magazine

Inspiring stories, expert insights, news and tips

Fire safety in historic buildings: an underestimated risk

Fire safety in historic buildings is often perceived as bureaucratic and challenging. When is a fire safety concept required and how can safety, heritage protection and economic viability be reconciled? Read on

Inspired by the renaissance, restored for the future: a castle like a single-family home

A Prague-based developer restored a neglected historic gem in South Bohemia and, thanks to heat pumps and geothermal energy, reduced its energy consumption to that of a typical single-family home. Before selling, he shares insights about the castle and its unique features. Read on

Castillos, Palacios, Casas señoriales: Legal Framework for Historic Properties in Spain

Anyone considering a historic property in Spain should know about heritage protection, BIC status and owner obligations. REALPORTICO explains property types, opportunities, and Spain’s approach to preserving its cultural heritage. Read on

From ruin to retreat: transforming a former inn in the Polish Sudetes

Dutch set designer Urian Hopman transformed a historic ruin in Poland’s Sudetes into a unique rural retreat. Combining original structures with modern design, his interiors reflect a balance of materials, light, and lived-in character. In this interview, he shares his journey from ruin to remarkable home. Read on

Manor in Leźno near Gdańsk available for lease

The well-preserved estate, including a manor house in Renaissance Revival style with park and outbuildings, is offered for lease by the University of Gdańsk. Interested parties may submit written bids until 30 October 2025. Read on

Country estate just outside Hamburg: A good spirit awaiting new guardians

Nicola von Hollander shares insights into the family estate, recounting its history, present life, Tatort filming days, and the good spirits that now pass the manor with its Lenné park near Hamburg to a worthy successor. Read on

Renaissance of old castles in the country

How a historic manor house in Posterstein, threatened by decay, was brought back to life. A local association in Thuringia shows that restoring and revitalizing historic properties does not always have to be a "bottomless pit". Read on

Buying a historic property abroad: save money with a currency broker

Buying a historic property abroad often involves large currency transfers where exchange rates and fees can significantly affect the final cost. A currency broker offers better rates than banks, helps manage timing and protects against currency risks, saving you money and making the process smoother. Read on

Between Tailoring Art and Castle Romance

Frank Wienand is a menswear tailor based in Aachen, Germany. But his entrepreneurial spirit goes beyond fashion: just across the border in Belgium, he is managing a very different project - at a place where fine fabric and elegant clothing have long been part of a refined society. Read on

Palma’s Gallery Owner Gerhardt Braun in Conversation

Gerhardt Braun shapes Palma’s art scene like few others. A conversation about urban palaces, curatorial concepts, and creative visions along Mallorca’s capital’s art gallery district. Read on

A Palace with a View – Chinchilla’s "Casa de la Cúpula"

Far from the islands, tapas bars and tourist crowds, Castile-La Mancha – the former heartland of the Spanish crown – surprises with a wealth of urban and rural manor houses, often still available at remarkably reasonable prices, as seen with the Casa solariega de los Moreno in Chinchilla. Read on

Beesenstedt: Life in the castle - driven by vision and heart

Between rural charm, historic preservation, and the dancefloor: why Schloss Beesenstedt in Saxony-Anhalt has become a hidden gem for artists, businesses, and creatives - and what makes this place truly unique. Read on

Historic properties in Spain as a profitable investment opportunity

Castles, palaces and masias in Spain: a booming wedding industry is creating new economic opportunities for investors. The market for exclusive event venues is steadily growing, with Catalonia being particularly popular for international weddings and events. Read on

Tips for Preservation and Maintenance of Listed Buildings

Owning a listed property requires not only dedication but also expertise and continuous attention to preserve its historical integrity. Sustainable restoration and targeted maintenance efforts help preserve its value and character. Read on

Retiring in Italy: Why Choose the Bel Paese for Your Golden Years?

Italy offers an exceptional quality of life, with diverse options to suit every lifestyle - from its mild climate to its rich cultural heritage. With affordable living costs in many regions, it remains an ideal choice for retirees seeking beauty, well-being and relaxation. Read on

Most Sought-After Historic Properties of 2024

Which historical properties were particularly in demand in 2024 and what developments can we expect in this segment in 2025? Our annual review and forecast summarizes the most important findings. Read on

Foundation to save Friedrichswerth Castle

For some castles it is simply not possible to find a buyer. State of Thuringia has been looking for investors and a usage concept for the former pleasure palace of Duke Friedrich I of Saxony-Gotha-Altenburg for many years. Compared to many other... Read on

Feng Shui and geomancy for historic properties

Geomancy and feng shui complement each other perfectly to promote the energetic balance of real estate. Particularly in the case of large historic properties with complex histories, these two disciplines can help to resolve stressful energy traces and thus support well-being for owners and guests. Read on