Dome of St Sophia’s Cathedral in Kyiv, which has not been restored for over 50 years, is currently undergoing restoration. PHOTO
Work has begun in Kyiv on the restoration of the south-eastern dome of St Sophia’s Cathedral, which was last renovated in the 1970s. The main work on this part of the monument is scheduled to be completed by the start of winter.
This was reported by the "Saint Sophia of Kyiv" National Reserve, according to Censor.NET.
Scaffolding and a protective canopy have now been erected on the dome, which will allow restorers to work even in adverse weather conditions.
Similar work has already been carried out on the cathedral’s north-eastern dome. Experts have reinforced and partially replaced structural elements, treated the wooden components with fire-retardant and pest-control agents, and restored the copper cladding and decorative finishes.
The reserve explained that the restoration project involves the phased restoration of all the domes and, subsequently, the entire roof of St Sophia’s Cathedral.
In 2026, 15 million hryvnias were allocated for this work from a special fund of the Ministry of Culture. Patrons of the reserve also contributed to the funding.
The scientific and design documentation was prepared back in 2022 as part of the ‘Great Restoration’ programme.
The restoration of the domes and roof is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2028, provided that funding remains stable and is received on time.
St Sophia’s Cathedral, together with the adjacent monastic buildings, is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Previously, with UNESCO’s support, 28 seismic sensors were installed within the reserve to monitor the impact of Russian attacks and vibrational loads on the historic buildings.
