За консервацията и опазването на тракийската гробница край с. Александрово
Of the Conservation and Preservation of the Thracian Tomb at the Village of Alexandrovo

Summary/Abstract: The Thracian tomb by the village of Alexandrovo was unearthed in December 2000 by the archaeologist Georgi Kitov to soon gain international popularity for several reasons: first of all, it is decorated with fascinating wall paintings of hunting scenes. Second is the technique of the murals. The tests proved that these are among the earliest examples of the ancient encaustic painting. And last but not least, it is their authenticity and cohesiveness, which render them interesting to con- temporary researchers of Antiquity. The authors share their experience in their efforts to preserve this invaluable treasuretrove. The steps taken by governmental and municipal authori- ties, Bulgarian and foreign experts are presented chronologically. Ingenious solutions of conservation problems in conditions of high relative humidity (over 90 %) such as re-bonding of the stucco to the stonemasonry, stabilization of the flaking and scaling wall paintings, removal of efflorescence and incrustations are shown. Issues of preservation and exhibition of the tomb are also discussed while some of the mistakes are pointed out and solutions to the ultimate exposition of the tomb are offered. These solutions are based on four international expert reports: on the research and the conservation of the murals, on the interior microclimate, on the microbial protection and on the conservation of the stone masonry. The paramount idea of preserving the authenticity of the murals without unnecessary conservation intervention is being defended in correspondence with their high cultural, historical, scientific and educational value.

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