Skopje, 10 September 2025 (MIA) - A project for the emergency protection of the ‘Makedonium’ monument, valued at Mden 2.5 million, has been secured and will be implemented by the end of the year. The Institute and Museum Prilep is working on a project for the complete reconstruction and conservation of the entire complex, Government spokesperson Marija Miteva said at a press conference Wednesday.

Miteva announced that the project will be completed by mid-next year, after which the Ministry of Tourism and Culture will establish the timeline, financing plan, and full reconstruction.

The spokesperson noted that the current condition of the monument is not due to negligence by the current government, but to years of delays and inaction in the past.

“The reconstruction of the ‘Makedonium’ monument started several years ago and was scheduled for completion in 2017. Upon removal of the scaffolding that year, the project was forcibly interrupted and left without the necessary protection. For the following seven years, no measures were taken to complete or safeguard the monument, resulting in substantial consequences for this significant cultural monument,” Miteva said.

She highlighted that they will not make excuses and have a duty to take concrete and responsible steps to protect the ‘Makedonium’ due to its cultural and national importance.

“The ‘Makedonium’ represents a unique architectural and artistic object, composed of concrete, stained glass, and specialized materials demanding expert intervention. Consequently, some of the necessary expertise will be sourced internationally to guarantee the permanent protection of this cultural heritage. The ‘Makedonium’ will not be abandoned to deterioration; it will be reconstructed, conserved, and its rightful prestige restored. This monument is not only of cultural value but also part of our national memory and identity, and as such, it will be passed on to future generations,” Miteva said.

Photo: MIA archive and government screenshot