Ivan Gushchin congratulated the residents of Tatarstan on International Day of Monuments and Sites.

      The International Day of Monuments and Sites is celebrated today in Tatarstan. In a message to the professional community and residents of the republic, the chairman of the Committee for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, Ivan Gushchin, emphasized that this day unites everyone who is involved in preserving historical heritage – restorers, architects, historians, local historians, tour guides, volunteers, and concerned citizens. "We are preserving not just buildings. We are preserving memory. The memory of those who lived before us, of the events that shaped our character, our culture, our identity. Every saved church, every restored merchant's house, every renovated monument is our common contribution to the future," Gushchin noted. He reminded that Tatarstan is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Currently, about 6,000 sites are under state protection in the republic, of which 2,030 are included in the unified state register. Significant funds are allocated annually for their preservation from both the budget and private donors. Behind each site, as he emphasized, are human destinies, years of labor, and the involvement of residents. "Special thanks go to our restorers. With your hands, what seemed lost forever is being brought back to life. Thank you for your work, patience, and love for your craft," Ivan Gushchin stressed. He also thanked everyone who participates in preserving heritage: those who donate funds, help during clean-up days, report problems, and simply do not remain indifferent. In conclusion, Gushchin stated that heritage is not only the past but also a responsibility to future generations, and expressed confidence that preserving the historical environment is only possible through joint efforts.

      Photo: © Vladimir Vasilyev / "Tatar-inform"