Tighina fortress to be restored with help of European Union

Chisinau, Nov. 26 / MOLDPRES /- In Bender, the restoration and conservation works of the Tighina Fortress began. The total cost of the works is over 1.4 million euros, money provided through the European Union's Confidence Building Measures Program, implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

Tighina Fortress (Bender), historical objective from the 15th century. XV of strategic importance, thus enters the first stage of restoration works. They will be carried out in accordance with international standards and practices.

During 2019, emergency conservation works were carried out, namely pedestrian fencing at the patrol paths of the citadel fortresses, deforestation of vegetation (trees, shrubs) on the bastion between the citadel and the lower citadel, protection measures of the Tower water and the pedestrian fence of the lower fortress. In the summer of 2020, a detailed technical expertise was carried out, based on which the project for the restoration and conservation works from the first stage was elaborated.

„Conservation and restoration of the Tighina Fortress (Bender) is one of the two emblematic projects within the cultural heritage component of the European Union's Confidence Building Measures program. The European Union considers culture to be essential for the harmonious development of any society and has a strong transformative force on both banks of the Dniester, "said Janis Mažeiks, EU Ambassador to Moldova.

The works from the first stage, which will take place until June 2023, provide: consolidation of all areas / elements of construction at risk of collapse both at the Upper Fortress (citadel) and at the Lower Fortress; complete preservation of the wall on the east side of the Tighina Fortress (Bender), this being the wall that is in a critical condition; complete conservation / restoration of the three wall towers, also in the eastern part of the fortress with the erection / replacement of the roofs, which will be reproduced exactly to the original version; modernization of the stormwater drainage system; securing stairs and passageways in accordance with international standards.

"UNDP believes in the positive impact of cultural heritage in building trust and social cohesion between communities. We are pleased to participate in the conservation and restoration of the historical monument - Tighina Fortress (Bender). This is one of the many community and business support projects, implemented on both banks of the Dniester in partnership and with EU financial support. It is an excellent meeting point for people on both banks of the Dniester - wonderful atmosphere, picturesque landscape, cultural and historical background - very necessary elements to unite people and communities, "said Dima Al-Khatib, UNDP Moldova Resident Representative.

Conservation and restoration of the Tighina Fortress (Bender), together with the Chisinau Circus is one of the two emblematic objectives of the restored cultural heritage with the support of the EU program. It contributes to strengthening trust between the inhabitants of both banks of the Dniester River, by involving them in joint development projects.

Photo: UNDP