Emergency contribution to UNESCO for the preservation and restoration of the damaged Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra heritage site

Since 24 February 2022 UNESCO has documented damage to 545 cultural sites caused by Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra and its Dormition Cathedral were damaged during an attack on 15 June 2026. With winter approaching, urgent stabilization and protective measures are needed to prevent further deterioration. Damage assessments and documentation are also required to determine restoration and repair needs. Cultural sites such as the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra contribute to social cohesion, national identity, and institutional resilience during conflict, making the protection and preservation of these unique assets essential in the face of ongoing war.

UNESCO has setup a Special Account for Ukraine which includes a component for the safeguarding of cultural heritage and institutions. Switzerland’s contribution to the Special Account will target the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

- Conflict affected communities

- Heritage custodians and cultural practitioner

- Ministry of Culture

Risultati principali attesi:  

Output 1. Urgent stabilisation, restauration and preservation works are carried out at Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra: 

1.1 (winterization): Execution of urgent interventions to protect the north-east dome and to repair the upper part of the perimeter walls and extrados of the attic vaults

1.2 (detailed design): Elaboration of the detailed design documentation for the actual execution of the consolidation and reconstruction works.

Risultati fasi precedenti:   n/a