Press Release

The restoration works of the Chișinău Circus building continue, with the support of the EU and UNDP

16 October 2023

  • The restoration of the Chișinău Circus roof has been ongoing for eight months now. These works, part of first stage of restoration and conservation efforts of the building, are being carried out with the support of the European Union's Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP.
Photo: © UNDP Moldova

Since March 2023, the following has been accomplished:

  • Replacement of the crown and lantern roof covering;
  • Rehabilitation of the support layer of the dome's covering;
  • Replacement of the drainage system for rainwater from the dome.

To make the building more energy-efficient, the old thermal insulation, based on glass wool, is being replaced with a new one based on basalt wool and lined with magnesium oxide panels. So, the Circus roof will meet energy efficiency requirements, and the new materials will also provide fire protection. At this stage, works are being carried out on three sectors: the dome covering, the terrace-type roof, and insulating the dome from the inside.

In the near future, the installation of the metal roof covering of the dome will be completed.

Another set of works part of the first phase of restoration and conservation, supported by the EU and UNDP, involve replacing the vitrified façade of the main building. So far, the old stained-glass windows on the upper levels have been removed, and the installation of new metal and aluminum profiles is set to begin.

The European Union, through the Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP, has allocated over €1,800,000 to cover the costs of detailed technical expertise, design, and repair/conservation works in the first phase. 

For the next phases, the authorities of the Republic of Moldova are expected to attract funding, including from development partners.

The Chișinău Circus building has a significant architectural value and, since May 2022, it has been included in the Register of State Protected Monuments. The restoration and conservation of the Circus are being carried out in accordance with national and international standards.

Under the European Union's Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP Moldova, 12 cultural-historical objects on both banks of the Nistru River, including two prominent buildings: the Chișinău Circus building and Tighina (Bender) Fortress – benefit from restoration and conservation works. 

The programme contributes to building trust among residents on both banks of Nistru river by involving them in joint development projects.

Laura Bohantova-avatar

Laura Bohantova

UNDP
Communications Analyst, UNDP Country Office

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UNDP
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