19th-Century Church in Altai Region Encased in Ice Due to Water Tower Malfunction

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In the village of Volchno-Burlinskoye, Krutikhinsky District, restoration efforts for a unique historical monument are under threat. A 19th-century wooden church, undergoing restoration since this summer, has become coated in thick ice layers. The issue stems from a malfunction in the nearby water tower's automation system. When the tower overflows, water spills out and freezes on the church’s exterior due to the wind.

Local media report that the restoration began thanks to Moscow resident Nikolai Voznesensky, a descendant of priests who once served in the church. The preserved wooden structure, built following a 19th-century standard design, had long been abandoned, subjected to decay, and used for agricultural storage. However, recent efforts have aimed to change that. Voznesensky, together with Barnaul architect Alexander Dering and a team of volunteers, initiated preservation and revitalization efforts for the site.

The project is not focused on full restoration but rather on emergency stabilization and creating a tourist-friendly environment around the church. Students from the Altai State Institute of Culture have joined the initiative, presenting a thesis project on landscaping the area.

The restoration is estimated to cost between 5 and 10 million rubles, with a significant contribution from the benefactor. Additional support is expected from the regional Ministry of Culture and private donations. A presentation of the church revival project is planned for autumn, coinciding with the 100th-anniversary celebrations of the Krutikhinsky District.

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