Italy’s Special Envoy for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, Davide La Cecilia, accompanied by a delegation from the Italian Embassy and Pietro Pipi, the head of the regional office of AICS Kyiv, visited Odessa alongside UNESCO’s Director for Ukraine, Chiara Dezzi Bardeschi. Their objective was to establish a coordination mechanism for the city’s reconstruction project. This project includes the restoration of the Transfiguration Cathedral, securing cultural sites in the historic center listed on UNESCO’s endangered heritage list, and developing the city’s master plan.
During the mission, La Cecilia, accompanied by Father Myroslav, visited the Cathedral and held a coordination meeting with Odessa’s city and regional authorities, cultural institutions, the business community, and representatives of civil society. He presented the “Laboratory for the Reconstruction of Ukraine” project, initiated by the Triennale di Milano and the MAXXi Museum of Contemporary Art in Rome, in partnership with UNESCO.
The first intervention, supported by a €500,000 contribution from Italian Cooperation, aims to provide initial roof coverage for the Cathedral, severely damaged by Russian bombings last July 23. This initiative aims to protect one of Odessa and Ukraine’s symbolic cultural and religious buildings.
“The project in Odessa holds strong symbolic significance due to the historical and cultural ties with Italy,” said the Special Envoy. “It places us at the forefront of the reconstruction process, especially during Italy’s Presidency of the G7, which prioritizes Ukraine’s revitalization and reconstruction. Transforming the city into a modern and sustainable hub aligns with the ‘build back better’ logic, a principle at the core of Minister Tajani’s initiative launched in Milan last October 31 alongside Minister Sangiuliano, Triennale, and MAXXi.”
“We expect our companies to contribute to this initiative with their expertise and entrepreneurial spirit,” he added.
“Proud of our solid expertise and collaborations in cultural heritage protection, even in conflict and post-conflict contexts,” noted Pietro Pipi, Head of AICS Kiev’s regional office. “Together with local institutions, civil society, and partners, we are committed to preserving culture and promoting a prosperous future for the country.”
The visit underscores Italy’s commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction and cultural preservation, fostering collaboration between international organizations, governmental bodies, and local stakeholders for a sustainable and prosperous future for Odessa.
