Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture announced on February 13 that Italy’s plan to rebuild Odessa’s historic center will take three years and cost around 45 million euros.
Acting Minister of Culture Rostislav Karandiyev met with a special envoy from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss the plan.
“We appreciate your efforts towards the restoration of monuments in Ukraine. Your company proves that the Italian government and people are true friends of Ukraine,” Karandyev said.
Italy will support the restoration of the Transfiguration Cathedral, which was heavily damaged by a Russian missile attack on the night of July 22-23. The funds will also be used to create a digital map of Odesa’s historic center, which has been added to UNESCO’s list of heritage sites in danger, and to develop a master plan for the city.
Mr. Karandiyev also proposed expanding the partnership between Italy and Ukraine through a sponsorship system between cultural institutions.
Since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, it has already damaged or destroyed more than 120 monuments of national importance. According to UNESCO, Russia’s war has damaged at least 337 cultural sites in Ukraine from the start of the invasion to January 10.
Understanding President Zelenskiy’s Decree on Russian Lands “Historically Inhabited by Ukrainians”
Unity Day is observed as a national holiday in Ukraine on January 22, and usually commemorates the unification of eastern and western Ukraine in 1919. But this year, the day was highlighted by a decree signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy regarding the historically ruled territories of present-day Russia.
Kate Tulkan