Reconstruction of the attractions of Macedonia will finance UNESCO

Reconstruction of the attractions of Macedonia will finance UNESCO

UNESCO will contribute financially to the reconstruction of the Bigorski Monastery in Macedonia, also known as Jovan-Bigorski, which is one of the main attractions of Macedonia. The reason for unplanned reconstruction of oldest and largest religious complex in the territory of Macedonia was a fire in September 2009, when the monastery was severely damaged.

The grant, which UNESCO will contribute to the restoration of the monastery, will be worth of 50 000 euros. UNESCO's initiative deserved gratitude from the official authorities of the country. The Minister of Culture of Macedonia Elizabeth Konchevska-Milevska called the help of UNESCO a “major contribution to the restoration of the ancient shrine of the country”.

At the same time, the minister said that the funds allocated by UNESCO will be insufficient for full restoration of the monastery. Therefore, to the participation in financing of the reconstruction will be involved public funds, funds of private companies and individuals.

The complex of the Monastery of Saint Jovan Bigorski dates back to the 11th century. It is located in the western part of Macedonia, between the towns of Gostivar and Debar. The patron saint of the monastery is John the Baptist. According to the legend, the monastery was founded near the river Radhika, where the Macedonian fisherman netted the miraculous icon with a face of John.

The fire had destroyed or severely damaged much of the unique collection of the monastery: paintings, ancient manuscripts and antique objects for religious ceremonies. It is worth noting that one of the major shrines of the monastery - the iconostasis of the Church of St. John the Baptist - was rescued from the fire by local monks.

UNESCO's participation in the restoration of the monastery is not the only project that the fund of the organization sponsors in Macedonia. Another UNESCO’s grant of $ 36 000 dollars will receive a unique ethno-complex in Krushevo. Furthermore, UNESCO will act as the organizer of the Conference on interfaith dialogue, which will be held in Macedonia in May.

Date: 04/04/2010