A Case Study of Vogvarjeva hiša, a Local Ethnographic Museum

The Vogvarjeva hiša in Spodnje Duplje, Slovenia, is an example of traditional 18th Century wooden architecture and an important element of the region’s cultural heritage. The building was constructed from local timber on stone foundations and reflects the traditional rural building techniques of the Gorenjska region. Since it was declared a cultural monument in 1985, it has functioned as an ethnographic museum and offers valuable insights into historical ways of life and craftsmanship, particularly through the preservation of a traditional cobbler’s workshop. This study presents a detailed condition assessment of the house, focussing on the structural integrity of the timber elements and the extent of biodegradation. A multidisciplinary diagnostic approach was used, including visual inspections, resistance drilling, moisture content measurements, airborne fungal spore sampling and morphological analysis of insect species. The results indicate localised but active wood decay caused mainly by house longhorn beetle (Hylotrupes bajulus) and common furniture beetle (Anobium punctatum). Although the moisture content is below the threshold values for fungal growth, it still favours the activity of the insects. Recommendations for protection include targeted chemical treatments, improved ventilation and ongoing environmental monitoring. The results emphasise the need for proactive conservation measures to preserve the architectural and cultural value of Vogvarjeva hiša for future generations.