The bell tower of Vadul Rașcov, an architectural monument dating back to the 17th century, was inaugurated following the completion of conservation and restoration works. The intervention, valued at approximately EUR 140,480, was funded by the European Union through the Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The restoration works focused on protecting the historic stone masonry, which had been affected by the passage of time and exposure to the elements. A protective structure was installed to stabilize and preserve the masonry, while the historic roof was reconstructed using traditional wooden shingles. The intervention helps safeguard the monument and ensure that this local heritage is preserved for future generations.

“Cultural heritage is more than a reminder of our past. It is also a bridge between people and communities. Here, on the banks of the Nistru, this has a very special meaning. For centuries, communities on both banks have shared history, traditions and cultural ties. By restoring the Bell Tower in Vadul Rașcov, we are not only preserving an important part of Moldova’s heritage for future generations. We are also creating opportunities for people to reconnect, cooperate and build trust. This is at the heart of the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures Programme,” stated Iwona Piórko, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.

Throughout the restoration process, the Vadul Rașcov bell tower also served as a learning site for young people who had chosen the restoration profession for the first time. Students gained insights into the history of the region, explored its cultural context and learned about the restoration processes and techniques specific to this heritage site. Until recently, construction restoration had not been offered as a field of study by the Centre of Excellence in Construction. The qualification was added to the institution’s educational portfolio in 2025.

“For us, heritage conservation is not simply about restoring buildings. It is about preserving what communities value and creating opportunities for local development through education, tourism and cooperation. By combining conservation with skills development and community engagement, cultural heritage can contribute to sustainable development and build trust. We are grateful for the European Union’s partnership and support in helping heritage sites become a source of opportunity, connection and pride for local communities,” said Seher Ariner, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

Built by anonymous craftspeople using local limestone, the tower forms part of the historic cemetery complex in Vadul Rașcov. Over the years, it has served both as a bell tower and as a gateway to the cemetery. Its square plan, massive structure, four arched openings on the upper level, and staircase built into the northern wall give it a distinctive architectural identity.

The monument is also closely linked to the history of the locality, situated near a former crossing point over the Nistru River and along historic trade routes connecting Podolia and Moldova. Its conservation offers the community an opportunity to showcase this history and make it known to visitors.

“Vadul Raşcov was a prosperous and diverse market town; as a child, I caught a glimpse of what that atmosphere was like. The bell tower is a symbol of our past, one that is very interesting and vivid. As a teacher, for 43 years I walked past the bell tower twice a day on my way to school and it was very dear to me even before the restoration, but after the restoration it has become twice as dear,” said Olga Pâslă, a Romanian language and literature teacher at the local school.

The restoration of the Vadul Rașcov bell tower is part of a package of four cultural heritage interventions supported by the Confidence Building Measures Programme between 2024 and 2026. The other sites include the Țîpova Cave Monastery, the Great Synagogue of Rașcov, and the façade of the former Savings Bank and Treasury Building in Tighina/Bender.

By preserving cultural heritage on both banks of the Nistru River, the European Union and UNDP are supporting the promotion of shared history and creating opportunities for dialogue and cooperation between communities.

Download here the press-release in Russian.