The Prague shrines are a valuable monumental resource, combining tangible and intangible heritage, and their symbolic and spiritual value is indisputable. In spite of previous inventory and popularisation activities, these shrines have never lived to see a full, comprehensive record of a conservation nature. The new initiative, carried out in cooperation with the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments in Warsaw, the Office of the City of Warsaw for the Praga-Północ District and Social Guardians of Monuments, aims to change this state of affairs.
The project “Praga shrines – identification, documentation, protection” not only brings attention back to the existing legacy, but creates conditions for its further protection and preservation for future generations.
The aim of the project is to identify courtyard shrines – both free-standing and wall-mounted – together with associated elements such as pedestals, fences or enclosures. The project envisages detailed photographic and descriptive documentation carried out directly on site, as well as the preparation of record cards according to established models for movable monuments. In this way, the material collected will not only increase its scientific value, but will also serve as a practical tool for future conservation work.
The project is scheduled to run from April to November 2025. The work will begin with organisational meetings, followed by information and training workshops to enable participants to acquire the necessary competences. This will be followed by field work, which will be carried out by small groups under the guidance of experienced Community Monument Keepers. Each participant will have the opportunity to learn not only about documentation techniques, but also about the history and cultural context of the Praga-Północ district, which will contribute to deepening local identity and mutual understanding between residents.
An important element of the project is the broad involvement of the local community. The Social Monument Keepers, operating in the Praga area, act as local leaders who know the historic landscape of the district very well. Working together to document the shrines is not only about gathering facts and photographs, but also about building relationships between residents with different experiences and perspectives. This initiative has the potential to become an impulse to strengthen social ties while showcasing the richness and originality of local cultural heritage.
The project ‘Prague shrines – identification, documentation, protection’ is an initiative that combines respect for history with active community involvement . The undertaking not only makes it possible to preserve the material condition of the monuments, but also creates conditions for a better understanding of the role of small architecture in shaping urban identity. Thanks to the cooperation between public institutions and residents, the heritage of the Praga-Północ district will gain not only scientific value, but also significance for the community itself.
How to join the project?
To apply, fill in the form and send it to spolecznie@mwkz.pl by 23 April 2025 . More information HERE.
source: Mazovian Voivodeship Historic Preservation Officer
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