A recent renovation of Gondar’s prized Fasiladas Ghebbi compound has drawn widespread attention, sparking debate among experts and residents about the balance between restoration and historical preservation.
The compound, located in the heart of Gondar and renowned for its massive walls and castles built by various emperors between the 1640s and 1740s, now features a façade of white and pale colors after the restoration. This change in appearance has sparked concerns about preserving its historical authenticity.
Critics argue that altering the original hues, which had defined the site for centuries, undermines its historical character. “Why has the historic character of these buildings been changed to a whiter palette?” one commentator asked, reflecting a broader sentiment of unease about whether the restoration approach was appropriate.
Chemical engineer Getahun Heramo pointed out the challenges of determining the original colors of the structure, emphasizing the need for transparency from those involved in the project. “An explanation of the methodology and decisions behind the renovation is essential,” he noted.
Journalist Elias Meseret has commented on the ‘bleached’ appearance of the structure, raising questions about the extent to which historical sites should be restored. “Do you think historical sites should be restored to this extent, even if it means losing their original look? Or is this renovation perfect as it is?” he asked.
Responding to the criticism, renowned architect Fasil Giorghis, who participated in the renovation as a consultant, defended the work. He pointed out that the refurbishment adhered to all contemporary regulatory standards and was informed by a detailed study of the castles’ original construction materials.
Speaking to BBC Amharic, he explained that the castles were originally built using rough-hewn basalt in a lime mortar. Over centuries, exposure to rain, sun, and natural processes gave the castles the weathered, “shrouded” appearance familiar to many today, he said.
Since the restoration was carried out using lime mortar, the color is said to appear noticeably whiter, Fasil explained.
According to Fasil Giorgis, the renovation of the castles was conducted using materials true to the originals, including rough-hewn basalt and lime mortar.
“It’s done in a manner consistent with heritage preservation,” he said, addressing concerns about the changes in appearance.
He explained that the brighter, lighter color is due to the new lime used in the restoration process. “The lime and stone structure will naturally weather over time, gradually returning to its original look,” he added, emphasizing that the change is temporary and a natural part of the aging process.
Fasil Giorgis acknowledged that in some cases, substances are added during renovations to enhance the appearance and restore the original color of the structures. However, he emphasized that they avoided using chemical additives, as these could pose unintended risks to the heritage.
The Fasil Ghebbi compound, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, consists of six castles enclosed by tall stone walls in the heart of the city center. While the site has undergone significant restoration work since the late 1990s, it continues to face challenges from aging structures.
The Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage (ARCCH) conducted a comprehensive study on the restoration work several years ago, but it was set aside due to budget constraints.
The Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage (ARCCH) conducted a comprehensive study on the restoration work several years ago. The project was shelved due to budget constraints until a year ago when the renovation began based on this earlier study conducted by experts.
