The restoration and conservation works of the Tighina (Bender) Fortress have started. The total cost of the works is over €1.4 million, provided by the European Union-funded “Confidence Building Measures” Program, implemented by the UNDP, IPN reports, quoting a press release of UNDP Moldova.

During 2019, emergency conservation works were conducted. In the summer of 2020, a detailed technical expertise was conducted, based on which the design for the restoration and conservation works at the first stage was developed. The works will be carried out in compliance with international standards and practices.

“The European Union believes that Culture is essential for the harmonious development of any society and has a strong dynamic and transformative force for both banks of the Nistru River,” said Janis Mažeiks, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.

The works at the first stage, which will be carried out until June 2023, involve: consolidation of all areas/construction elements 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 (Bender) Fortress, which is in 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 rainwater drainage system.

Conservation and restoration of the Tighina (Bender) Fortress, together with the Chisinau Circus, is one of the two emblematic objectives of the cultural heritage restored with the support of the EU “Confidence Building Measures” Program. The program implemented by the UNDP contributes to strengthening trust between residents on both banks of the Nistru River, by involving them in joint development projects.

“This is one of numerous community and business support projects, implemented on both banks of the Nistru River in partnership and with the financial support of the EU. […] The Fortress is already a preferred location for festivals and cultural events, which I have gladly attended on several occasions. It is an excellent meeting point for people from both banks of Nistru River – great atmosphere, picturesque landscape, cultural and historical background – much needed ingredients to unite people and communities,” said Dima Al-Khatib, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.