Preservation of traditional wooden architecture in Zervynos ethnographic village, the State protected cultural heritage landmark

Project facts

Project promoter:
Zervynos village community
Project Number:
LT06-0018
Target groups
Non governmental organisation,
Elderly people
Status:
Completed
Initial project cost:
€547,427
Final project cost:
€546,721
From EEA Grants:
€ 417,378
The project is carried out in:
Alytaus apskritis

Description

Zervynos ethnographic village, built in the junction of 19th and 20th centuries, is a characteristic example of the traditional architecture of Dzūkija region. The aim of the project is to return the authentic look of the village and to protect it from further decay. During the project, the roofs of a number of residential houses will be re-covered with fitting wooden shingles, while the roofs of outbuildings will be replaced with wooden laths. Also, windows and doors of some residential houses will be restored. It is foreseen that one of the buildings will be turned into a community house to serve as a place for cultural and educational activities. In order to foster craftsmanship, a 3-days training focusing on the technologies of roofing and restoration of doors and windows will be organized for craftsmen and those wishing to develop their skills. Tourist flows are expected to increase in the area as some owners of the homesteads are planning to develop rural tourism activities after the project is implemented. The project is implemented in cooperation with Dzūkija National Park and Čepkeliai State Nature Reserve, and Varėna District Municipality.

Summary of project results

Zervynos village is a typical Dzūkija region village which formed at the end of the 19th century - the beginning of the 20th century. It preserved authentic urban structure, traditional wooden architecture and expressive elements of the small architecture. Unfortunately, demographic changes, materials unsuitable for repair works along with other factors resulted in the process of rapid decay of the village. Zervynos village community, in cooperation with the Administration of Dzūkija National Park and Čepkeliai State Strict Nature Reserve, implemented the project for the revitalization of 32 objects, i.e. 8 residential buildings and 24 outbuildings. Roofs in emergency condition were refitted with a coating of larch shingles (in residential buildings) and laths (in outbuildings). Also, outworn structures (rafters, lathing) were replaced, wooden windows and doors of the residential houses were repaired and fire safety alarms installed. All of the above not only allowed protecting the traditional architecture against extinction, but also contributed to better living conditions and touristic attractiveness of the location. Theoretical and practical trainings have been carried out in the course of the project that provided homestead owners and craftsmen with useful knowledge of proper maintenance of wooden architecture as well as of the tradtional technologies.

Summary of bilateral results