Facade restoration is now complete on a historic synagogue in Lesko, Poland, capping a multi-year preservation effort that local officials say cost more than 1 million zlotys.

The final stage, announced Sept. 17, 2026, focused on the building’s northeastern and northwestern walls. The scope included repairing masonry and plaster, restoring stone vases and the cornice on the pediment, and updating window sills and buttress cladding. Crews also refreshed metal elements and gutters and supplemented the lightning protection system. The last phase cost 358,856 zlotys, including technical supervision, with support from Poland’s Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, the Podkarpacie Voivodeship, and the regional monument conservator. The local community covered the remaining costs.

The synagogue stands at 16 Berka Yoselevicha St. and dates to the mid-17th century, according to local officials. It is known for wavy Mannerist pediments with stone vases and for its massive buttresses. Over the centuries, it saw major changes, including an 1838 rebuild and later roof and interior updates. During the German occupation it was used as a warehouse, and after the war the building deteriorated, including a roof structure collapse.

For mason contractors who work in restoration, the Lesko project is a clear reminder that facade work rarely stops at brick and mortar alone. Long-term performance depends on tying masonry and plaster repairs to the details that move water off the wall, including cornices, sills, buttresses, and gutters. The project’s phased approach also shows why careful documentation, trade coordination, and dedicated oversight matter when scopes stretch across multiple years.

With the exterior now addressed, the interior still awaits renovation. Local officials are seeking funding for the main hall and women’s prayer gallery, and they also plan to open an observation deck on the tower. The building currently houses the Bieszczady Art Gallery “Synagogue,” part of the Bieszczady House of Culture in Lesko.

Read the full, original article from pragmatika.media here.