PHOTO // Vadul Rașcov bell tower restored with EU and UNDP support

Vadul Rașcov bell tower, a 17th-century architectural monument was inaugurated following the completion of conservation and restoration works. The intervention, worth approximately 140,480 euros, was carried out with financial support from the European Union through Confidence-Building Measures programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The works aimed to protect 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 rebuilt using traditional wooden shingles. The intervention contributes to preserving the monument and passing on the local heritage to future generations.


“Cultural heritage is more than a memory of our past. It is a bridge between people and communities. Here, on the banks of the Dniester, this has a special significance. For centuries, communities on both banks have shared a common history, traditions and cultural ties. By restoring the Bell Tower in Vadul Rașcov, we are not only preserving an important part of the Republic of Moldova’s heritage for future generations. We are also creating opportunities for people to reconnect, cooperate and build trust. This is one of the central objectives of the European Union’s Confidence-Building Measures programme,” said Iwona Piórko, EU Ambassador to Chișinău.


During the restoration, Vadul Rașcov bell tower also served as a study site for young people who had chosen the restoration profession. The students gained insight into the region’s history and developed an understanding of its cultural context, as well as the restoration processes and techniques specific to this cultural heritage site. The restorer-builder specialization had previously been absent from the educational offerings of the Centre of Excellence in Construction. The qualification was added to the institution’s portfolio in 2025.


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


Built by anonymous craftsmen from local limestone, the tower is part of the old cemetery complex in Vadul Rașcov. Over time, it served both as a bell tower and as an entrance gate to the cemetery. Its square plan, massive structure, four arched openings on the upper level and staircase incorporated into the northern wall give it a distinctive architectural identity.

The monument also preserves a connection to the history of the settlement, which is located near an old Dniester crossing point and the trade routes between Podolia and Moldova. Its conservation gives the community an opportunity to showcase this history and make it known to visitors.

Its restoration is part of a package of four cultural heritage interventions supported between 2024 and 2026 by the Confidence-Building Measures programme. The other sites are the rock monastery at Țipova, the Great Synagogue in Rașcov, and the façade of the former Savings Bank and Treasury in Tighina/Bender.