Iseum Savariense, Szombathely

Architect: Tamás Mezős
Text and photos: Tímea Papp

Opened in 1963, there is once again a sanctuary on the site of the park with ancient ruins called Iseum in Szombathely. Ottó Sosztarics archeologist and Tamás Mezős architect integrated data coming to light into formerly accessible knowledge between 2001 and 2003. The concept of „Iseum reconstruction” was to have the new sanctuary represent the replica of its ancient antecedents in its entirety. The edifices with modern materials reflect the dimensions of the whole sacred site, the scales and spatial proportions of Roman architecture whilst also adjusting to the buildings surrounding them. The form of the U-shaped structure built above a certain part of the floor plan of the temenos breaks up symmetry to some extent so that the spectacle is enjoyable even when viewed from the direction of the neighbouring Szombathelyi Gallery. This is the reason why the wing closer to the latter is cut shorter. This building is to house an interactive archeological exhibition displaying findings excavated here.