After decades of dormancy, the historic Cambi Tower in Kaštel Kambelovac is once again undergoing renovation. The 2,4 million euro renovation includes preserving the original walls, Baroque paintings and exposed stonework, and adapting the interior to the needs of the 21st century.
Designer Dr. Katja Marasović and project manager Ivan Ležaja reveal the complexity and importance of this unique project that will transform the Cambi Tower into a contemporary cultural and social center for Kambelovac. Watch the video and take a peek into the renovation process of this Kastela icon.
- After 30 years, work on the tower has continued, which is a big deal. In a year, we will have a renovated Cambi tower with a summer house. The construction site has a small square footage, but it is very complex because the complex was created in several phases. All of this needs to be reconciled, and it is really not easy for the contractor - said designer Marasović.
Two large oysters found
From the first day of the works, the removal of layers in the floor began, and all layers and findings that were found are documented in the archaeological diary. During the works, two large oysters, larger than two meters, were found in the northern building. One oyster remained there, while the other was removed. Baroque paintings were found on the walls. The oyster will be exhibited in the open air in Kaštel Kambelovac.
- These are works during which there is no way to dig mechanically, but everything needs to be paid attention to in order to avoid the irreversible destruction of something that has historical value - explained construction site manager Ivan Ležaja.
Works in full swing
Rough construction work is underway. So far, the historical finds that were found in the courtyard and ground floor have been archaeologically documented and the foundation layers of the floors have been made. The walls have been injected, mostly for reinforcement, and capillary moisture has been interrupted. The reinforced concrete roof structure has been removed and a new roof is being constructed. Part of the structure is being built with stone and the necessary installations are being installed.
The interior is designed in a contemporary style with state-of-the-art lighting. The house will have a cultural and social purpose. There will be a library on the ground floor, while the tower will house a small souvenir shop. A kitchen will also be built that can be used for various occasions. The owner of the entire complex is the City of Kaštela and the Bijaći Society, which will have their offices here. The hall on the first floor of the tower will house a meeting room, and the other floors will house exhibition spaces.
The renovation work on the Cambi Tower is being carried out by the company MAR doo from Samobor, and the completion deadline is 18 months. The date of notification of the start of the works was 19 May 2025.
Watch the video and take a peek into the restoration process of this Kastela icon.
Photo: screenshot
This text was co-financed by the Fund for Promoting Diversity and Pluralism of Electronic Media.
