Description
This project’s main aim is to contribute to addressing economic and social imbalances/address challenges through the renovation of the building of the Skaudvilė Church of the Šv. Kryžiaus, which is on the state-protected architectural monuments' list as part of Skaudvilė Šv. Kryžiaus buildings complex. Restored Skaudvilė Šv. Kryžiaus church building will improve the urban living environment, quality of life and image of the city (as well as image of Tauragė district municipality). This will help to reduce the gap between Tauragė district and other regions of the country that are more developed and possess better living environment and quality. During the project Skaudvilė Šv. Kryžiaus church building will be restored by using traditional construction methods. In order to preserve Skaudvilė Šv. Kryžiaus church building it is necessary to carry out these restoration works of cultural heritage: roof repair, restoration of the cap, walls, doors, eaves, entrance stairs, pavement, and annex, installation of new roof of the annex, restoration of decorative elements and other work. In the restored building training in the form of practical activities will be organized for owners of cultural heritage objects and society in order to increase awareness about cultural heritage value, and ways or technologies for the restoration of cultural heritage objects. The church is situated in the center of Skaudvilė and it attracts not only local inhabitants but also tourists and pilgrims. It is expected, that implementation of the project will have a positive impact on small businesses operating in Skaudvilė.
Summary of project results
Skaudvilė Church situated halfway between Kaunas and Klaipėda is one of the few sacral buildings of the shape of the cross with Classicism features. The Church was built in 1797, minor rearrangements were made in the early-20th century (walls were covered with wood boards, straw roof was replaced with tin), but the building retained most of its original elements till nowadays. Timber of peculiar quality was used in the construction of the church as two hundred years later most of it is still in excellent condition. However, the church was in need of restoration for a long time as some lumbers and other parts were degraded. During the project implementation, decayed logs were restored, facades were covered with new boards and painted. Also, stained glass of the windows, decorative elements of the facade were restored, major repair of the roof was carried out, stone socle was renovated, drainage and lighting systems were installed. One of the most complex works was the replacement of the foundation beam of the building, during which the entire church was lifted up. The restoration specialists were surprised by unusual notch of the logs. In order not only to revitalize the church but also to introduce preservation of this heritage to public, a three-day long theoretical and practical training about the peculiarities of wooden architecture, its protection and carving was organised.
Summary of bilateral results