In Kolomna will be closed for restoration Friday gates of the Kremlin

In November, the Friday Gate of the Kolomna Kremlin, the main symbol of the city, will be closed for restoration. Preparation was carried out all year: specialists studied archival materials, data on previous restorations and the current state of the structures. The project for the preservation of all the walls and towers of the Kremlin has already been developed, passed examinations and agreed with the authorities for the protection of cultural heritage sites.

The condition of the Friday Gate is critical. The tower actually opens into four parts, and the ground pulls one of them towards the river. If nothing is done, the destruction will continue. Therefore, the gate is restored first.

Unexpected for specialists was the discovery of archaeologists: the depth of the foundation of the Friday Gate exceeds 11 meters. This emphasizes the uniqueness of the monument and at the same time complicates the work.

The first task is to strengthen the foundation and supporting elements. Start with strengthening the entire structure of the tower, restoration of the roof and ceilings on all tiers. There is a relaying of emergency areas - floors, arches, fragments of walls. Modern methods will also be used: injection of masonry to restore its integrity. The roof will be restored according to the historical model - wooden, as in the XVII century. Initially, in the XVI century, the towers of the Kremlin were open, with parapets and defensive function. The roofs came later.

On one of the tiers, a museum exposition is equipped with heating, lighting and ventilation. Viewpoints on the upper floors will be made available. For low-mobility groups will provide a lift. Inside the tower, modern stairs will be arranged on all tiers, outside - for lifting groups with disabilities. Two fragments of the wall from the side of the Burnt Tower will also be restored - a ladder will be made in one of them. This will strengthen the tower as a buttress and provide an additional exit.

A separate detail is the West Bell. It will be restored: historically, he warned the city about troubles and holidays.

Now the supplier is determined, the work will begin in about a month. The tower will be closed for the period of restoration – it is worth considering residents and guests of the city. It is planned to be completed by the anniversary of Kolomna. But restorations can always face hidden defects, so timing is an open question.