Restoration of the Marble Hall at Chernivtsi University Continues with Work on Columns and Walls

Restoration Works to Preserve the Architectural Heritage

Restoration works on the columns and walls have begun in the Marble Hall of Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University, as part of a project aimed at preserving and restoring the architectural elements of one of the university’s most representative halls.

At the current stage, specialists are carrying out surface-cleaning works, removing dirt and deposits accumulated over time. The interventions will continue with the restoration and renewal of decorative elements, with the aim of bringing the interior as closely as possible in line with conservation and restoration requirements.

According to project coordinator Tamara Marusyk, the works are scheduled to be completed by December 2026, with interventions covering the walls and columns, as well as several components of the interior decoration.

The Technical Condition of the Decorations Requires Intervention

The need for the works is justified by the “unsatisfactory technical condition” of several architectural elements of the Marble Hall. According to information provided by the university at the request of Suspilne, deterioration affects the decorative elements of the walls and columns, the parquet flooring, as well as other components of the room.

The interventions are intended not only to improve the aesthetic appearance of the hall, but also to preserve the existing architectural elements and prevent further deterioration. The restoration is being carried out in accordance with the technical documentation prepared for the project.

Cleaning and Restoration of Interior Surfaces

During the first stage, specialists are carrying out cleaning works on the walls and other surfaces. These interventions are necessary to prepare the architectural elements before the application of restoration and finishing materials.

The technical documentation provides for the cleaning of part of the vault surfaces to remove dirt and dust, as well as the treatment of existing cracks. The surfaces will subsequently receive finishing layers designed to restore the hall’s architectural appearance.

Interventions on Columns and Pilasters

An important component of the project is the restoration of the columns and pilasters in the Marble Hall. These elements will be cleaned and their artificial marble cladding will be restored.

The project also provides for the application of a finishing layer on the walls with an artificial marble imitation, aimed at restoring the decorative appearance of the interior and maintaining the architectural unity of the hall.

Restoration of Ornaments and Decorative Elements

The works also include interventions on decorative elements made of plaster, stucco and concrete. These elements will be cleaned and renewed wherever their technical condition requires intervention.

According to the documentation, the contractor must fill cracks in the architectural decoration with mineral filler and restore damaged decorative elements. The aim is to preserve the architectural details and maintain the historical character of the Marble Hall.

Funding from U.S. Sources and University Funds

The restoration project benefits from mixed funding. Part of the financing comes from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, while the remainder is provided from the special fund of Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University.

According to the project coordinator, the main source of the special fund’s own revenues is guided tours, allowing the university to allocate its own resources to the preservation and restoration of its heritage.

More Than UAH 11 Million Allocated for the Restoration Works

The restoration is being carried out by Stroireffir, a company from Kyiv Region, which was the sole bidder in the public procurement procedure for the works.

The company was also involved in the restoration of the Marble Hall, completing work on the ceiling last year. The continuation of interventions on the walls, columns and decorative elements is part of the broader rehabilitation process for this representative space.

The estimated value of the procurement for the current works exceeds UAH 11 million, according to the project documentation.

Works Scheduled for Completion in December 2026

Under the contract concluded for the execution of the works, the contractor must complete the restoration by 10 December 2026.

The project thus aims to continue the restoration of the Marble Hall and preserve its architectural and decorative elements. By combining international funding with the university’s own resources, the institution seeks to preserve and enhance one of the most important historic spaces within Chernivtsi’s academic and cultural heritage.