Description
Pavirvytė manor is a characteristic example of the Samogitia region's wooden architecture. In order to protect this valuable building from decay, variety of elements and parts of the manor will be restored using traditional restoration techniques. The project has a strong focus on fostering craftsmanship, as training of conservation and restoration will be organised with master craftsmen from Norway and Lithuania. Moreover, permanent workshops will be established after the project is finished which will create conditions for local community members to acquire useful skills of carpentry, pottery and weaving. Importance of tolerance and cultural diversity are highlighted during the seminars which are organised in cooperation with the Polish community. These will cover topics of the cultural heritage of minorities, shared history and intercultural dialogue which contribute to a greater mutual understanding. The restored building will greatly enrich the cultural life of the region, as a small library and a museum about the history of the manor will be established here too, and various events, including archaeological camps for youth, are foreseen to take place in the manor. The Buskerud Folk Music Centre at the Sigdal Museum (Norway) is the project partner in this project. It contributes to the project by sharing its experience with the project promoter in wooden cultural heritage restoration using traditional techniques. It also takes part in the organisation of trainings for craftsmen.
Summary of project results
Pavirvytė Manor was built on the right bank of the Virvytė River in the beginning of the 19th century. The surviving landlord’s house is a typical example of wooden architecture in Samogitian region. Even though it preserved numerous authentic details, its condition was very poor until Antanas Naujokas, a farmer and public figure, acquired the manor with an intention to revive both the manor and the life of the local community. Thorough applied research has been carried out in the course of the project that was used when executing works of design, repair and restoration. The state of the building changed completely as constructions of roof and walls, foundation, flooring, facades and decorations were all taken care of. Four seminars on preservation and use of wooden buildings were arranged for the cultural heritage owners and the general public. Right after the building was revitalized, it started hosting various community events. Future plans for the manor include the establishment of a reading-room, a workshop for masters of the old crafts, exhibition about the manor, organization of cultural events and educational camps.
Summary of bilateral results
Two-week long theoretical and practical trainings were organized for craftsmen and those eager to become ones by the experts of Norway and Lithuania. During the trainings, participants were introduced to the importance of cultural heritage research, trained to carry out restoration and conservation works in line with results of research, got to learn about the differences between the two countries regarding restoration techniques.