Asociația Villa Wellmer 2.46

We wish to raise public awareness on a small region of Europe rich in history but economically poor: Felmer village, Braşov county, Romania. The cornerstone of our endeavour is the building of an architectural complex having as historical model a fortified manor dating from the border of XIIth and XIIIth centuries, using as much of Middle Age’s technique, materials and working methods as possible (experimental archaeology principles).

When completed, “Casa Greavului” will become an open-air museum dedicated to Transylvanian Saxon settlers, a place for historical reenactment and meeting spot for young fans of Middle Age. Also “Casa Greavului” will provide the necessary framework for practicing traditional rural handicrafts: baskets weaving, pottery, blacksmithing, carpentry, textile fibers weaving, fields in which we will integrate gradually members of the local community. Selling their products in organized fairs and festivals may ensure part of the Felmer’s sustainability.

The project is divided into several seasonal stages (spring and autumn), two per year, with participation of 4-5 volunteers each stage. Stages duration ranges between 2 and 4 months, shorter intervals during springtime. Organizations and public bodies from France, Italy, Poland, Spain and Turkey are involved in this project with volunteer’s selection and sending preparations.

Being a construction project, the activities involved are physical, using handwork tools and methods linked with earth digging, woodworking and stone masonry. Under supervision and guidance of qualified masters, volunteers are learning the old ways of building and maintaining a large rural household. By using non-formal learning methods, the volunteers are entrusted with independent small projects, involving from conception to implementation many of the previously learned activities.