Dan-Ionut Julean | Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (original) (raw)
Papers by Dan-Ionut Julean
Philobiblon, Jul 2, 2024
The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits ... more The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits belonging to the Transylvanian heritage. They represent particular instances, unique traces as an introspective glimpse into the history of an aristocratic family that became extinct more than 100 years ago. The genealogy of the Korda family is quite intricate, thus, virtually infinite connections begin to unfold, bringing together people, places, stories, houses, objects which sometimes are surprisingly scattered in space and time. The research is contextualised within the broader issue of heritage assets in contemporary Romania.
Philobiblon, 2024
The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits ... more The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits belonging to the Transylvanian heritage. They represent particular instances, unique traces as an introspective glimpse into the history of an aristocratic family that became extinct more than 100 years ago. The genealogy of the Korda family is quite intricate, thus, virtually infinite connections begin to unfold, bringing together people, places, stories, houses, objects which sometimes are surprisingly scattered in space and time. The research is contextualised within the broader issue of heritage assets in contemporary Romania.
Philobiblon, Dec 22, 2022
At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unb... more At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unbroken link to his roots and native places. These became increasingly important as life had pulled him away from this setting, which he would revisit just after reaching his maturity. Each of these three poems concentrates on a specific theme: his idilic memory of the native village as opposed to the real situation, the perpetual fostering of the ancestors, and the decayed and desacralised image of the house he was born in. The article analyses these aspects, focusing on the stories behind each of them.
Philobiblon. Transylvanian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research in Humanities, 2017
“Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience ... more “Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience layering compositional aspects, background information, and even preconceptions. Nevertheless, this process of deconstructing the image might really become fascinating, if the object of the study is a human portrait. Thus, the paper proposes an insight into the life of one of the most mysterious women in history, Virginia Oldoïni Vérasis, Countess de Castiglione. The analysis will focus especially on her portrait, Scherzo di follia. Keywords: portrait-photograph, icon, gazing eyes, Countess de Castiglione (1837- 1899), Pierre-Louis Pierson (1822-1913)
The monument, as a concept, has been largely debated, however, from an architectural point of vie... more The monument, as a concept, has been largely debated, however, from an architectural point of view the issue raises two possible discussion paths. The first is a theoretical perspective on how the concept evolves from a historical, social and/or cultural perspective. This path is based on observations of behaviour and cultural cues, detected in different contexts or environments. The second one is an empirical path, which presupposes practical solutions for particular situations with which architects are or could be confronted. Their response is sometimes the product of a clear theoretical construct and, of course, sometimes the context requires a fresh approach, even if this means that the outcome may contradict the common theoretical expectations or that it goes one step beyond, submitting an “outrageous” proposal. The article explores the middle ground of these two paths. The first part contextualises the discussion among concepts like place, culture or identity, while the second...
In today‟s society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with conc... more In today‟s society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with concepts such as monumentification or museification, ranking, listing, and indexing an alarmingly growing number of artefacts, buildings, and other heritage assets, therefore inevitably trivializing and diminishing the value of the concept of the monument. Thus, on one hand, in real life, one has to take into account various issues related to maintaining, preserving, restoring or rehabilitating an existing built heritage, which undergoes different evaluation criteria adapted to the contemporary social realities and norms of the group. However, the issues raised by the concept of monument and the questions of the built heritage are not only matters regarding the physical reality. Consequently, the topic surpasses the boundaries of the everyday, transgressing into virtual space. Therefore, the analysed case study proposes an insight into the way in which architecture is built, experienced or l...
East European Jewish Affairs, 2015
After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, a... more After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about 300,000 Jews have left Romania. Currently, in Romania, the Jewish population is around 12,000–15,000, generally aging. Despite the general interest of the Romanian society in Judaism and the Jewish communities, as the article highlights, there are only about half a dozen Jewish museums, most of them being rather unknown and modest community exhibitions, dusty and decrepit. The article focuses on these particular museums and their collections, but trying to point out the resources and real potential of the Jewish heritage in Romania, envisaging that it is high time to experience new Jewish museums.
The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one ... more The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one of its most important creators – architect Daniel Libeskind. In times when identity, continuity of life and traditions, and community values are estranged due to globalization, cultural consumerism, and financial power and interests, people cherish significantly less the hidden significances and the sacred aspects of life, of the objects around them, and of the human milieu in which they live. In this context, sometimes, architecture has a role of purification – for the mind, for the soul, and even for the body – but only for those who understand and believe its message, and in this way, learn how to detach themselves from the profane in which they live, leaving behind the secular and entering the sacred: the fascinating, pure, and complex architectural space. This means in both literally, as well as metaphorically terms, passing through architecture, as an intermediary space between the...
Philobiblon, 2022
At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unb... more At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unbroken link to his roots and native places. These became increasingly important as life had pulled him away from this setting, which he would revisit just after reaching his maturity.Each of these three poems concentrates on a specific theme: his idilic memory of the native village as opposed to the real situation, the perpetual fostering of the ancestors, and the decayed and desacralised image of the house he was born in. The article analyses these aspects, focusing on the stories behind each of them.
Transsylvania Nostra, 2020
In the 21st century industrial heritage – and in particular the historic building that belongs to... more In the 21st century industrial heritage – and in particular the historic building that belongs to industrial herit- age – is a current research topic, but also a means for architectural experimentation on space and its limits as an intermedi- ary between the individual and society. Many theories place the industrial heritage building, as a listed historic building, on an ever-changing position. The proposed case study comes as a direct exemplifica- tion of this theoretical journey.
The former Brewery in Turda is, through its historical evolution, a silent witness of the economic and social transformations of the town over the course of a century and a half. Although physically decrepit, via the many contemporary interventions, today it represents a real social condenser – a free time factory, where there is room for both the local community, as well as for artistic experiments or socio-cultural events.
“Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience ... more “Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex
perceptual experience layering compositional aspects, background information, and
even preconceptions. Nevertheless, this process of deconstructing the image might
really become fascinating, if the object of the study is a human portrait. Thus, the
paper proposes an insight into the life of one of the most mysterious women in
history, Virginia Oldoïni Vérasis, Countess de Castiglione. The analysis will focus
especially on her portrait, Scherzo di follia.
Keywords: portrait-photograph, icon, gazing eyes, Countess de Castiglione (1837-
1899), Pierre-Louis Pierson (1822-1913)
![Research paper thumbnail of Coplean – destinul unei familii, destinul unui castel [o istorie radiografiată]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/44669481/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](LogiA, 2010
Coplean – the Destiny of a Family, the Destiny of a Castle [X-rayed History] Kapjon (Coplean) – ... more Coplean – the Destiny of a Family, the Destiny of a Castle [X-rayed History]
Kapjon (Coplean) – egy család sorsa, egy kastély sorsa [egy átvilágított történelem]
East European Jewish Affairs, 2015
After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about... more After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about 300,000 Jews have left Romania. Currently, in Romania, the Jewish population is around 12,000–15,000, generally aging. Despite the general interest of the Romanian society in Judaism and the Jewish communities, as the article highlights, there are only about half a dozen Jewish museums, most of them being rather unknown and modest community exhibitions, dusty and decrepit. The article focuses on these particular museums and their collections, but trying to point out the resources and real potential of the Jewish heritage in Romania, envisaging that it is high time to experience new Jewish museums.
East European Jewish Affairs, 2012
Oradea, once possessing the most active and important Jewish community in Hungary (the biggest in... more Oradea, once possessing the most active and important Jewish community in Hungary (the biggest in number, after Budapest), and then in Romania, is nowadays a true, silent witness of the immense impact of Jewish culture, in almost all aspects of society, and especially architecture. There is an important Jewish legacy to protect and to pass on to the heirs, in memory, of those approximately 25,000 Jews from Oradea who were exterminated in Auschwitz-Birkenau in May 1944. The article highlights the history and heritage of the Oradea Jews, from the beginning to the present day.
![Research paper thumbnail of Rethinking [Jewish] Diaspora Community Space: The Synagogue as a Crisis Heterotopia](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/44667891/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](Trends in Architectural and Urban Planning Education - Between Fundamental Approach and Research by Design – Special Issue, 2012
The numerous synagogues spread in the Diaspora represent a challenge for almost any interested re... more The numerous synagogues spread in the Diaspora represent a challenge for almost any interested researcher, due to their original, specific, and long lasting tradition, directly connected to Judaism and to Jewish communities, bond in a dual relation. Apart from discussing religious aspects concerning the problematic of monotheism or the role of the place of worship, remarkably, the synagogue represents " something different ". It is that " singular " place of worship to be considered a " total " community space, offering a special experience, as a ritual space that exists out of the time, i.e. a heterotopia (as it was introduced by Michel Foucault). The paper pursues a different kind of approach on the nature of synagogues and the experiences associated with their historical becoming, significances, and characteristic matters. Place for worship and prayer, house for learning and home for community gatherings, the synagogue is a " different " type of sacred space, standing outside the sacred, the real, and the profane, in the same time. It is intrinsically connected with spiritual experiences. As the ultimate refuge of Jewishness in the Diaspora, this " other space " reunites the real (the profane) with the holy (the sacred), the existent (the inherited) with the promised (the future), the everyday life with the ritual, the school with the faith, the values with the laws and exigencies, the individual profit and wealth with generosity and charity, the self with the others, for the welfare of the whole community.
The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one ... more The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one of its most important creators – architect Daniel Libeskind. In times when identity, continuity of life and traditions, and community values are estranged due to globalization, cultural consumerism, and financial power and interests, people cherish significantly less the hidden significances and the sacred aspects of life, of the objects around them, and of the human milieu in which they live. In this context, sometimes, architecture has a role of purification – for the mind, for the soul, and even for the body – but only for those who understand and believe its message, and in this way, learn how to detach themselves from the profane in which they live, leaving behind the secular and entering the sacred: the fascinating, pure, and complex architectural space. This means in both literally, as well as metaphorically terms, passing through architecture, as an intermediary space between the profane and the sacred, in a place that sometimes exists out of the time. Analysing Libeskind's buildings and their symbolic meanings we identify three models of creation, in Jewish contemporary architecture, using memory as an identitary source and resource.
Special Issue: Interferences in architecture and urban planning. Architectural teaching and research, 2013
Discussing the Jewish space requires a comprehensive approach on its traditional typologies: reli... more Discussing the Jewish space requires a comprehensive approach on its traditional typologies: religious space and for purification, space dedicated to study, and space for community gatherings. Simultaneously reflecting these coordinates and overlapping their physical attributes with their formal limitations, spiritual valences, and possible contextual meanings, the Jewish space might be an absolute community space. In spite of the vicissitudes of History and social and political persecution, generally, Jewish architecture used to mime and retrieve specific elements from the adoptive nations and features of the prominent styles of the period. The gradual emancipation and liberation of Jews from the " traditional " ghetto, by the mid nineteenth century, allowed the "opening" of Jewish quarters, the flourishing of Jewish life (especially cultural), and, above all, the development of an architecture as an expression of this newly achieved social condition. Jewish communities contributed, often essentially, to the rising of the urban life quality, and, generally, to the prosperity of the cities that gave them this chance. Hence, the two valences of Jewish architecture: one identitary, and the other programmatic. Meanwhile, the synagogue has always provided the " centrality " of life for all the Diaspora communities. During the last century, the community centre has pursued this role, too. Under these circumstances, which would still be the meaning of the " Diaspora " ? How might we define the " exile " , the " home " , and the " homeland " ?
Special Issue: Continuity and Discontinuity in Urban Space, 2014
The " Jewish " spaces in contemporary Europe recall a past that is rather strain for the non-Jewi... more The " Jewish " spaces in contemporary Europe recall a past that is rather strain for the non-Jewish population, but significant for the Holocaust survivors and their families or, generally, for the contemporary Jewish communities (however small they would be). In the same time, they represent, again, as they did for centuries, cultural crossroads of European civilization (reuniting people with different nationalities, identities, traditions, religions, and languages). In addition, defined as cosmopolite social and cultural centres, the former Jewish quarters (centres of Jewish life) exert a great force of attracting tourists and consumers of Jewish culture, the majority being, paradoxically, non-Jews. Why? The paper tries to explain this fascination on Jewish heritage and actually to highlight, through an objective appropriate case study, its impact on the contemporary society. Accordingly, in Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter of Krakow, " Jewish history " continues to be written, even though Jews do not inhabit it anymore. Here, the Jewish memory and legacy have significantly contributed to a real urban rehabilitation and " renewal " process. Hence, the Jewish cultural heritage means not only museum exhibits or tourist attractions, but also continuity of life and the future, although, sometimes, a " high price " has to be " paid " , by today's communities, to ensure the perpetuation of the Jewish life of tomorrow's Diaspora.
Special Issue– International Workshop in Architecture and Urban Planning Sustainable Development and the Built Environment, 2015
In today's society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with conc... more In today's society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with concepts such as monumentification or museification, ranking, listing, and indexing an alarmingly growing number of artefacts, buildings, and other heritage assets, therefore inevitably trivializing and diminishing the value of the concept of the monument. Thus, on one hand, in real life, one has to take into account various issues related to maintaining, preserving, restoring or rehabilitating an existing built heritage, which undergoes different evaluation criteria adapted to the contemporary social realities and norms of the group. However, the issues raised by the concept of monument and the questions of the built heritage are not only matters regarding the physical reality. Consequently, the topic surpasses the boundaries of the everyday, transgressing into virtual space. Therefore, the analysed case study proposes an insight into the way in which architecture is built, experienced or lived in virtual life. " Second Life " offers such an example. Accordingly, the paper will focus on the concept of monument, which was previously clearly defined, but which now seems to surpass its initial boundaries, asking to be redefined, so that its meaning broadens, transcending into the virtual.
Philobiblon, Jul 2, 2024
The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits ... more The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits belonging to the Transylvanian heritage. They represent particular instances, unique traces as an introspective glimpse into the history of an aristocratic family that became extinct more than 100 years ago. The genealogy of the Korda family is quite intricate, thus, virtually infinite connections begin to unfold, bringing together people, places, stories, houses, objects which sometimes are surprisingly scattered in space and time. The research is contextualised within the broader issue of heritage assets in contemporary Romania.
Philobiblon, 2024
The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits ... more The article is an in depth investigation, which brings face to face two almost unknown portraits belonging to the Transylvanian heritage. They represent particular instances, unique traces as an introspective glimpse into the history of an aristocratic family that became extinct more than 100 years ago. The genealogy of the Korda family is quite intricate, thus, virtually infinite connections begin to unfold, bringing together people, places, stories, houses, objects which sometimes are surprisingly scattered in space and time. The research is contextualised within the broader issue of heritage assets in contemporary Romania.
Philobiblon, Dec 22, 2022
At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unb... more At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unbroken link to his roots and native places. These became increasingly important as life had pulled him away from this setting, which he would revisit just after reaching his maturity. Each of these three poems concentrates on a specific theme: his idilic memory of the native village as opposed to the real situation, the perpetual fostering of the ancestors, and the decayed and desacralised image of the house he was born in. The article analyses these aspects, focusing on the stories behind each of them.
Philobiblon. Transylvanian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research in Humanities, 2017
“Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience ... more “Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience layering compositional aspects, background information, and even preconceptions. Nevertheless, this process of deconstructing the image might really become fascinating, if the object of the study is a human portrait. Thus, the paper proposes an insight into the life of one of the most mysterious women in history, Virginia Oldoïni Vérasis, Countess de Castiglione. The analysis will focus especially on her portrait, Scherzo di follia. Keywords: portrait-photograph, icon, gazing eyes, Countess de Castiglione (1837- 1899), Pierre-Louis Pierson (1822-1913)
The monument, as a concept, has been largely debated, however, from an architectural point of vie... more The monument, as a concept, has been largely debated, however, from an architectural point of view the issue raises two possible discussion paths. The first is a theoretical perspective on how the concept evolves from a historical, social and/or cultural perspective. This path is based on observations of behaviour and cultural cues, detected in different contexts or environments. The second one is an empirical path, which presupposes practical solutions for particular situations with which architects are or could be confronted. Their response is sometimes the product of a clear theoretical construct and, of course, sometimes the context requires a fresh approach, even if this means that the outcome may contradict the common theoretical expectations or that it goes one step beyond, submitting an “outrageous” proposal. The article explores the middle ground of these two paths. The first part contextualises the discussion among concepts like place, culture or identity, while the second...
In today‟s society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with conc... more In today‟s society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with concepts such as monumentification or museification, ranking, listing, and indexing an alarmingly growing number of artefacts, buildings, and other heritage assets, therefore inevitably trivializing and diminishing the value of the concept of the monument. Thus, on one hand, in real life, one has to take into account various issues related to maintaining, preserving, restoring or rehabilitating an existing built heritage, which undergoes different evaluation criteria adapted to the contemporary social realities and norms of the group. However, the issues raised by the concept of monument and the questions of the built heritage are not only matters regarding the physical reality. Consequently, the topic surpasses the boundaries of the everyday, transgressing into virtual space. Therefore, the analysed case study proposes an insight into the way in which architecture is built, experienced or l...
East European Jewish Affairs, 2015
After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, a... more After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about 300,000 Jews have left Romania. Currently, in Romania, the Jewish population is around 12,000–15,000, generally aging. Despite the general interest of the Romanian society in Judaism and the Jewish communities, as the article highlights, there are only about half a dozen Jewish museums, most of them being rather unknown and modest community exhibitions, dusty and decrepit. The article focuses on these particular museums and their collections, but trying to point out the resources and real potential of the Jewish heritage in Romania, envisaging that it is high time to experience new Jewish museums.
The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one ... more The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one of its most important creators – architect Daniel Libeskind. In times when identity, continuity of life and traditions, and community values are estranged due to globalization, cultural consumerism, and financial power and interests, people cherish significantly less the hidden significances and the sacred aspects of life, of the objects around them, and of the human milieu in which they live. In this context, sometimes, architecture has a role of purification – for the mind, for the soul, and even for the body – but only for those who understand and believe its message, and in this way, learn how to detach themselves from the profane in which they live, leaving behind the secular and entering the sacred: the fascinating, pure, and complex architectural space. This means in both literally, as well as metaphorically terms, passing through architecture, as an intermediary space between the...
Philobiblon, 2022
At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unb... more At the beginning of the 20th century, György Versényi published three poems which capture the unbroken link to his roots and native places. These became increasingly important as life had pulled him away from this setting, which he would revisit just after reaching his maturity.Each of these three poems concentrates on a specific theme: his idilic memory of the native village as opposed to the real situation, the perpetual fostering of the ancestors, and the decayed and desacralised image of the house he was born in. The article analyses these aspects, focusing on the stories behind each of them.
Transsylvania Nostra, 2020
In the 21st century industrial heritage – and in particular the historic building that belongs to... more In the 21st century industrial heritage – and in particular the historic building that belongs to industrial herit- age – is a current research topic, but also a means for architectural experimentation on space and its limits as an intermedi- ary between the individual and society. Many theories place the industrial heritage building, as a listed historic building, on an ever-changing position. The proposed case study comes as a direct exemplifica- tion of this theoretical journey.
The former Brewery in Turda is, through its historical evolution, a silent witness of the economic and social transformations of the town over the course of a century and a half. Although physically decrepit, via the many contemporary interventions, today it represents a real social condenser – a free time factory, where there is room for both the local community, as well as for artistic experiments or socio-cultural events.
“Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex perceptual experience ... more “Reading” a photograph, compared to just looking at one, implies a complex
perceptual experience layering compositional aspects, background information, and
even preconceptions. Nevertheless, this process of deconstructing the image might
really become fascinating, if the object of the study is a human portrait. Thus, the
paper proposes an insight into the life of one of the most mysterious women in
history, Virginia Oldoïni Vérasis, Countess de Castiglione. The analysis will focus
especially on her portrait, Scherzo di follia.
Keywords: portrait-photograph, icon, gazing eyes, Countess de Castiglione (1837-
1899), Pierre-Louis Pierson (1822-1913)
LogiA, 2010
Coplean – the Destiny of a Family, the Destiny of a Castle [X-rayed History] Kapjon (Coplean) – ... more Coplean – the Destiny of a Family, the Destiny of a Castle [X-rayed History]
Kapjon (Coplean) – egy család sorsa, egy kastély sorsa [egy átvilágított történelem]
East European Jewish Affairs, 2015
After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about... more After the proclamation of the People's Republic of Romania, at the end of 1947, until 1988, about 300,000 Jews have left Romania. Currently, in Romania, the Jewish population is around 12,000–15,000, generally aging. Despite the general interest of the Romanian society in Judaism and the Jewish communities, as the article highlights, there are only about half a dozen Jewish museums, most of them being rather unknown and modest community exhibitions, dusty and decrepit. The article focuses on these particular museums and their collections, but trying to point out the resources and real potential of the Jewish heritage in Romania, envisaging that it is high time to experience new Jewish museums.
East European Jewish Affairs, 2012
Oradea, once possessing the most active and important Jewish community in Hungary (the biggest in... more Oradea, once possessing the most active and important Jewish community in Hungary (the biggest in number, after Budapest), and then in Romania, is nowadays a true, silent witness of the immense impact of Jewish culture, in almost all aspects of society, and especially architecture. There is an important Jewish legacy to protect and to pass on to the heirs, in memory, of those approximately 25,000 Jews from Oradea who were exterminated in Auschwitz-Birkenau in May 1944. The article highlights the history and heritage of the Oradea Jews, from the beginning to the present day.
Trends in Architectural and Urban Planning Education - Between Fundamental Approach and Research by Design – Special Issue, 2012
The numerous synagogues spread in the Diaspora represent a challenge for almost any interested re... more The numerous synagogues spread in the Diaspora represent a challenge for almost any interested researcher, due to their original, specific, and long lasting tradition, directly connected to Judaism and to Jewish communities, bond in a dual relation. Apart from discussing religious aspects concerning the problematic of monotheism or the role of the place of worship, remarkably, the synagogue represents " something different ". It is that " singular " place of worship to be considered a " total " community space, offering a special experience, as a ritual space that exists out of the time, i.e. a heterotopia (as it was introduced by Michel Foucault). The paper pursues a different kind of approach on the nature of synagogues and the experiences associated with their historical becoming, significances, and characteristic matters. Place for worship and prayer, house for learning and home for community gatherings, the synagogue is a " different " type of sacred space, standing outside the sacred, the real, and the profane, in the same time. It is intrinsically connected with spiritual experiences. As the ultimate refuge of Jewishness in the Diaspora, this " other space " reunites the real (the profane) with the holy (the sacred), the existent (the inherited) with the promised (the future), the everyday life with the ritual, the school with the faith, the values with the laws and exigencies, the individual profit and wealth with generosity and charity, the self with the others, for the welfare of the whole community.
The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one ... more The paper presents matters of contemporary Jewish architecture in relation with the works of one of its most important creators – architect Daniel Libeskind. In times when identity, continuity of life and traditions, and community values are estranged due to globalization, cultural consumerism, and financial power and interests, people cherish significantly less the hidden significances and the sacred aspects of life, of the objects around them, and of the human milieu in which they live. In this context, sometimes, architecture has a role of purification – for the mind, for the soul, and even for the body – but only for those who understand and believe its message, and in this way, learn how to detach themselves from the profane in which they live, leaving behind the secular and entering the sacred: the fascinating, pure, and complex architectural space. This means in both literally, as well as metaphorically terms, passing through architecture, as an intermediary space between the profane and the sacred, in a place that sometimes exists out of the time. Analysing Libeskind's buildings and their symbolic meanings we identify three models of creation, in Jewish contemporary architecture, using memory as an identitary source and resource.
Special Issue: Interferences in architecture and urban planning. Architectural teaching and research, 2013
Discussing the Jewish space requires a comprehensive approach on its traditional typologies: reli... more Discussing the Jewish space requires a comprehensive approach on its traditional typologies: religious space and for purification, space dedicated to study, and space for community gatherings. Simultaneously reflecting these coordinates and overlapping their physical attributes with their formal limitations, spiritual valences, and possible contextual meanings, the Jewish space might be an absolute community space. In spite of the vicissitudes of History and social and political persecution, generally, Jewish architecture used to mime and retrieve specific elements from the adoptive nations and features of the prominent styles of the period. The gradual emancipation and liberation of Jews from the " traditional " ghetto, by the mid nineteenth century, allowed the "opening" of Jewish quarters, the flourishing of Jewish life (especially cultural), and, above all, the development of an architecture as an expression of this newly achieved social condition. Jewish communities contributed, often essentially, to the rising of the urban life quality, and, generally, to the prosperity of the cities that gave them this chance. Hence, the two valences of Jewish architecture: one identitary, and the other programmatic. Meanwhile, the synagogue has always provided the " centrality " of life for all the Diaspora communities. During the last century, the community centre has pursued this role, too. Under these circumstances, which would still be the meaning of the " Diaspora " ? How might we define the " exile " , the " home " , and the " homeland " ?
Special Issue: Continuity and Discontinuity in Urban Space, 2014
The " Jewish " spaces in contemporary Europe recall a past that is rather strain for the non-Jewi... more The " Jewish " spaces in contemporary Europe recall a past that is rather strain for the non-Jewish population, but significant for the Holocaust survivors and their families or, generally, for the contemporary Jewish communities (however small they would be). In the same time, they represent, again, as they did for centuries, cultural crossroads of European civilization (reuniting people with different nationalities, identities, traditions, religions, and languages). In addition, defined as cosmopolite social and cultural centres, the former Jewish quarters (centres of Jewish life) exert a great force of attracting tourists and consumers of Jewish culture, the majority being, paradoxically, non-Jews. Why? The paper tries to explain this fascination on Jewish heritage and actually to highlight, through an objective appropriate case study, its impact on the contemporary society. Accordingly, in Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter of Krakow, " Jewish history " continues to be written, even though Jews do not inhabit it anymore. Here, the Jewish memory and legacy have significantly contributed to a real urban rehabilitation and " renewal " process. Hence, the Jewish cultural heritage means not only museum exhibits or tourist attractions, but also continuity of life and the future, although, sometimes, a " high price " has to be " paid " , by today's communities, to ensure the perpetuation of the Jewish life of tomorrow's Diaspora.
Special Issue– International Workshop in Architecture and Urban Planning Sustainable Development and the Built Environment, 2015
In today's society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with conc... more In today's society, one experiences an increasingly acute crisis of identity, operating with concepts such as monumentification or museification, ranking, listing, and indexing an alarmingly growing number of artefacts, buildings, and other heritage assets, therefore inevitably trivializing and diminishing the value of the concept of the monument. Thus, on one hand, in real life, one has to take into account various issues related to maintaining, preserving, restoring or rehabilitating an existing built heritage, which undergoes different evaluation criteria adapted to the contemporary social realities and norms of the group. However, the issues raised by the concept of monument and the questions of the built heritage are not only matters regarding the physical reality. Consequently, the topic surpasses the boundaries of the everyday, transgressing into virtual space. Therefore, the analysed case study proposes an insight into the way in which architecture is built, experienced or lived in virtual life. " Second Life " offers such an example. Accordingly, the paper will focus on the concept of monument, which was previously clearly defined, but which now seems to surpass its initial boundaries, asking to be redefined, so that its meaning broadens, transcending into the virtual.
Presa Universitară Clujeană, 2022
free e-book: http://www.editura.ubbcluj.ro/bd/ebooks/pdf/3063.pdf În anul 1894 murea Anna Korda... more free e-book: http://www.editura.ubbcluj.ro/bd/ebooks/pdf/3063.pdf
În anul 1894 murea Anna Korda de Borosjenő, soț ia lui Károly Versényi. Cu ea s-a stins numele Korda pentru totdeauna. O sută de ani mai târziu, murea la Cluj o stră-stră-nepoată îndepărtată a ei, care a păstrat vie amintirea familiilor din care descindea indirect, respectiv cu care se înrudea colateral, prin câteva obiecte de preț salvate din vrajba secolului al XX-lea. Ea singură, la Cluj, dintre toți urmașii familiei Korda-Versényi, a păstrat, a continuat și a dat mai departe tradiția, ca pe o datorie istorică. Cu această carte, am îndeplinit un testament moral, iar sigiliul moștenit de la György (IV) Korda și transmis, pe linie feminină, după patru generații, a revenit la lumină. Astfel, lucrarea de față încheie un cerc al istoriei: cele două ramuri ale familiei Korda de Borosjenő s-au regăsit în epoca digitalului, iar moștenirea lor se vede recompusă din fragmente și povești demult uitate, într-o microistorie de familie.
[RO] În urma a peste zece ani de studiu, acest demers se concentrează pe istoria, noile stadii de... more [RO] În urma a peste zece ani de studiu, acest demers se concentrează pe istoria, noile stadii de cercetare și metodele de investigare a evoluției reședinței nobiliare din satul Coplean (județul Cluj), începând cu secolul al XVII-lea, până în prezent. Este un studiu de caz extins despre un castel baroc, bogat decorat după gustul rafinat și în concordanță cu statutul uneia dintre cele mai influente familii aristocratice din Transilvania – familia conților Haller.
Discursul – o abordare istorică și arhitecturală – intenționează să cuprindă cât mai multe informații disponibile până în acest moment, despre evoluția acestui monument arhitectural unic, bazându-se atât pe surse de autoritate în domeniu, cât și pe metode arhitecturale deductive şi empirice. Mai mult, sunt analizate și comentate descoperiri recente, care permit reconstituirea unei istorii fragmentare, precum și a unor componente arhitecturale pierdute.
Grav avariat în urma unui incendiu devastator, la începutul secolului al XX-lea, neîntreținut și privat brusc de ultimele obiecte de valoare și elemente de amenajare a interiorului păstrate, utilizat intensiv în timpul comunismului, cu o lipsă totală de interes față de integritatea constructivă, iar apoi părăsit, astăzi, castelul aflat în ruină, retrocedat urmașilor proprietarilor, este în pericol de prăbușire. Paradoxal, cu nu foarte mulți ani în urmă, se putea încă citi, pe fațada principală inscripția sentențioasă „SOCIALISM FERICIRE”, cu vopsea roșie, ca simbol al unei continue condamnări.
[EN] Following ten years of systematic studies, this endeavour focuses on the history, new developments of research, and methods of investigation of the evolution of the manor house in Coplean (Cluj County, Romania), from the 17th century to the present. It is an extended case study on a unique Baroque country mansion, richly decorated according to the refined taste and status of one of the most influential Transylvanian aristocratic families – the Counts Haller.
The discourse – a historical and architectural approach – attempts to integrate much available knowledge about the historical background of this particular monument, focusing on reliable sources, as well as on both empirical and deductive architectural methods. Further on, it analysis and comments recent discoveries, which allow the reconstitution of a fragmented history, as well as of lost architectural parts.
Badly damaged by a great fire at the beginning of the 20th century, unattended and suddenly deprived of its remaining furnishings and values, intensively used during Communism, with total carelessness and, then, deserted, today, the remains of the castle, which is privately owned now, are in danger of collapse. Paradoxically, not so many years ago, one could still read the red-painted sententious inscription, on the main façade: “SOCIALISM FERICIRE” (meaning “socialism happiness”), as a symbol of its perpetual damnation.
cartea în fomat integral / the full e-book:
http://www.editura.ubbcluj.ro/bd/ebooks/pdf/2602.pdf
[RO] Această carte-album însoțește și completează expoziția omonimă dedicată, în Anul Centenar 20... more [RO] Această carte-album însoțește și completează expoziția omonimă dedicată, în Anul Centenar 2018, unui fenomen arhitectural interesant și important, desfășurat, în perioada interbelică, în teritoriul situat la vest de Carpații Orientali și la nord de Carpații Meridionali: „catedralele Unirii”, denumite uneori și „catedrale regale”. În realitate, este vorba de un adevărat demers arhitectural care se referă la construirea intensivă, în principalele orașe din provinciile istorice alipite Vechiului Regat, a unor biserici ortodoxe de mari dimensiuni, denumite uzual „catedrale”, fără a avea neapărat și funcția de scaun (arhi)episcopal. Aceste ctitorii, zidite din inițiativă statală sau locală, reflectă, în esență, o puternică dorință de manifestare a caracterului național „românesc”, „bizantin-ortodox” al statului nou creat – România Mare.
[EN] This album accompanies and completes the homonymous exhibition dedicated in 2018, the year when Romania celebrates its Centenary, to an interesting and important architectural phenomenon, which took place during the interwar period, to the West of the Oriental Carpathians and to the North of the Southern Carpathians: “the cathedrals of the Great Union” or “the royal cathedrals”. In fact, it is a true architectural endeavour, which refers to the intensive construction of large orthodox churches, commonly known as “cathedrals”, in the main towns and cities of the historical provinces, which were added to the Kingdom of Romania, without necessarily having the function of an (archi)episcopal seat. These churches, founded due to state or local initiatives, reflect a strong desire to exhibit the “Romanian”, “Byzantine-Orthodox” national character of the newly created state – Grater Romania.
cartea în format integral / full text
http://www.editura.ubbcluj.ro/php/download.php?f=2288&ex=pdf
[RO] Moștenirea familiei Bánffy în Transilvania este un album, al unei expoziții vernisate la Bal... more [RO] Moștenirea familiei Bánffy în Transilvania este un album, al unei expoziții vernisate la Balul Arhitecților din România, ediția 2017, găzduit de Palatul Bánffy din Cluj, care prezintă sumar, prin imagini, istoricul și situația unor clădiri din patrimoniul cultural național. Cea mai mare parte a lor se află pe fostele domenii istorice ale ramurilor baroniale și de conte ale familiei Bánffy de Losoncz. O parte din ele au ajuns proprietăți Bánffy prin căsătorie și moștenire, respectiv prin cumpărare. Unele dintre reședințele istorice rurale au fost locuite de membrii familiei, neîntrerupt, timp de sute de ani, acumulând astfel nenumărate valori artistice. Palatul din Cluj evocă, și în prezent, locuirea urbană cu stil. Ar fi fost greu să ilustrăm rafinamentul interioarelor sau al amenajărilor peisagere de epocă, însă documentele și mărturiile fotografice atestă categoric aceste calități.
[HU] A Bánffy család öröksége Erdélyben kiállítás korabeli és jelenkori képek által mutatja be a teljesség igénye nélkül a nemzeti kulturális örökség egyes épületeinek állapotát. Az épületek nagyrésze a Losonczi Bánffy-ak bárói és grófi ágainak egykori történelmi birtokain találhatók. Egyesek Bánffy tulajdonba kerültek házasság vagy örökösödés révén, mások felvásárlás következtében. Néhányat közülük a Bánffy család tagjai sokszáz éven át megszakítás nélkül otthonukként élveztek, eképpen felhalmozván számtalan művészi értéket. A kolozsvári palota jelenleg is stílusos városi életmódról tanuskodik. Nehéz lenne bemutatni a korabeli rafinált ízlésnek megfelelő belső berendezéseket, ha nem tanuskodnának erről dokumentumok és fényképek.
[EN] The Bánffy Family Inheritance in Transylvania is the album of an exhibition inaugurated during the 2017 edition of the Romanian Architects’ Ball, hosted by the Bánffy Palace in Cluj, which briefly portrays, through images, the history and the current condition of several national cultural heritage buildings. Most of them are located on the former estates belonging to the baronial and count branches of the Bánffy de Losoncz family. Some of them became Bánffy properties through marriage and inheritance, respectively through acquisitions. Some of the historical rural residences were inhabited by members of the family, uninterrupted, for hundreds of years, thus collecting countless artistic values. The palace in Cluj evokes, even today, urban dwelling in style. It would have been difficult to illustrate the once refined interiors or the former landscape designs, although there are documents and photographs that can clearly attest these qualities.
cartea în format integral / full text:
http://www.editura.ubbcluj.ro/php/download.php?f=2144&ex=pdf
«A vorbi despre un „spaţiu evreiesc” altfel decât în termenii teologici şi geografici (ori chiar ... more «A vorbi despre un „spaţiu evreiesc” altfel decât în termenii teologici şi geografici (ori chiar geopolitici) presupune o întreagă discuţie de principiu menită să elucideze ce poate însemna evreitatea exprimată spaţial: un decupaj topologic, un areal jalonat de principii şi legi, un tratament religios al gestionării spaţiului, o teologie a locuirii, un dialog între tradiţia religioasă şi cea istorică sau alte lucruri de natură teoretică. Putem avea, în această direcţie, explorări multiple, pornite de pe poziţii de o mare varietate. Dar important, în contextul dat, rămâne ce înţelege Ionuţ Julean prin spaţialitatea iudaică.
Cartea reprezintă o deschidere particulară către universul cultural, religios şi identitar al evreilor din Diaspora europeană, într-o epocă în care s-a petrecut translaţia către centrul comunitar evreiesc, în calitatea sa de succesor al sinagogii în îndeplinirea rolurilor sale multiple.
Debutul în volum al arhitectului Dan-Ionuţ Julean se recomandă astfel ca un eveniment în ordinea lecturii, instruirii, dar şi a preluării pe cont propriu a interogaţiilor cu privire la moştenirea spaţială iudaică şi modelările pe care ea le presupune.»
Ovidiu PECICAN