Th is study analyzes the historic roots of current problems concerning acceptance and integration of national minorities in the host-states they inhabit. Th e present case study of Bratislava, Slovakia seeks solutions to these problems. Th e analysis is grounded in the heritage futures perspective that looks into the past to achieve cultural recovery, integration and sustainable futures. Th e function of architecture to unify and form a renewed identity is explored based on its symbolic connection to the past. However, this connection is not sought for sentimental reasons, but for the purposes of ‘future-making’, by promoting cultural citizenship, integration, stability and security in the Danube region. To achieve this objective, a proposal is outlined to establish a number of specially developed living heritage centres across Central Europe, with the fi rst pilot project designed in Bratislava.