Architectural Masterpiece Research Articles

Weathering Tests on Raw and Consolidated Vicenza Stone.

The preservation of cultural heritage, particularly historical stone structures, represents a very challenging matter due to several environmental and anthropogenic factors. Vicenza stone, a calcareous rock known for its historical significance and widespread use in architectural masterpieces, requires significant attention for conservation. In fact, as the demand for sustainable and effective preservation methods intensifies, the exploration of innovative consolidation strategies becomes essential. To this end, inorganic consolidants, based on alkaline silicate formulations and nano-silica, were explored for their promising performance in enhancing the surface properties and chemical stability of Vicenza stone. In particular, the durability of treated and untreated Vicenza stone samples was evaluated by means of accelerated weathering tests such as freeze-thaw cycles, salt crystallization and simulation of acid rain. The experimental results revealed that Vicenza stone is very resistant to the effects of freeze-thaw cycles and acid rain; both the accelerated weathering tests did not show significant differences between treated and untreated VS samples. A different behavior was detected for the test for resistance to salt crystallization, whose findings led us to deduce that, for this kind of degradation, it is possible to observe a more beneficial effect of the consolidation treatments on the stone durability.

Architectural Heritage Buildings and Tourism Sustainability in Karangasem Bali

Objective: This study aims to explore and understand the interrelationships between cultural tourism and architectural heritage sites through tourist image and perception. These interrelationships must balance community needs, available resources, executive efforts and regional planning while protecting the environment. Theoretical Framework: Historic buildings are considered important elements in cultural heritage, and architecture is further considered to be one of the most important aspects that attract tourists. As a significant part of cultural heritage and tourism resources, architectural heritage is the most important commemorative, secondary architectural buildings and its natural and artificial environments in ancient areas and characteristic villages. Method: This study's method is based on mixed-method research, which is known as triangulation. This approach entailed gathering initial data, conducting interviews and surveys, and creating house maps. Traditional architectural documentation tools, such as drawings, plans, sections, elevations, and photographs, are required in all three process stages. Results and Discussion: Bali has a diversity of forms and varieties of traditional architecture. East Bali, part of the Karangasem kingdom called puri during the Mindle era of Bali, has preserved several unique architectural masterpieces. In this context, architectural heritage is critical in increasing property values. Preserving architectural heritage is considered environmentally friendly for cultural tourism. Research Implications: This study explores to what extent heritage architecture can be utilized as cultural heritage ideally and efficiently. This can be achieved by building sustainable restoration of archaeological and heritage sites to achieve sustainable heritage tourism. Originality/Value: This research utilizes experiments in countries with cultural heritage to obtain lessons, values and concepts that contribute to achieving an efficient program for sustainable tourism development based on the preservation of heritage areas.

Vibration Monitoring of the Rock Formation Above the Hatshepsut Temple

The Hatshepsut temple in Egypt is a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Just as distinct as the temple itself is the rock formation it is carved into, and recurring rock falls in the vicinity have raised concerns regarding the temple’s safety under progressing erosion and seismic activity. Due to the material characteristics (brittle carbonate rock), high stresses could lead to rapid crack propagation, and vibra-tion-based measures may be suitable precursors for imminent rock falls. This paper describes a two-day measurement campaign on the rock towers as a preliminary study prior to the implementation of a long-term seismic station. Next to operational modal analysis, horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratios, and standard spectral ratios are evaluated to cross-validate the resonance behaviour. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study where stochastic subspace identification (SSI) is applied for the estimation and automated tracking of natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios in rock formations. One of the advantages of this method is the inherent uncertainty quantification, meaning for each vibration record, the mean values and the standard deviations are estimated for each modal parameter, giving deep insights into the reliability of the vibration-based monitoring of rock formations.

History of the development of theater architecture: (5th century BC – beginning of the 20th century)

The article analyzes the stages of formation and development of theater architecture (from antiquity to 1900) in accordance with the evolution of culture, historical, social and economic development of human society. A description of the technologies of the theater building of different eras, its design and construction norms are presented. The authors made an attempt to explain the evolution of architectural styles of theater buildings from ancient times to modern times. It helps to understand the influence of cultural, technological and social factors on architectural decisions. The impact of the development of architectural styles in the construction of theaters of different eras on cultural heritage is also considered. The authors emphasize the need for a comprehensive coverage of the importance of considering the architectural features of theater buildings as part of the cultural heritage of various peoples and eras. For this purpose, the authors reviewed architectural masterpieces that have become symbols of their cities or countries. The authors separately considered the issue of technical progress in the construction of theaters at different times. This part of the article is devoted to explaining the technological innovations that influenced theater architecture, such as improved acoustics, lighting, and construction methods. Also, the authors of the article reviewed modern trends in the use of materials and energy-efficient solutions. The article analyzes the relationship between the development of theater architecture and social aspects, such as changes in audience tastes, the role of theater in society, and the reflection of political and cultural trends in buildings. The authors of the article attempted to determine the influence of theater architecture on modern architecture and society. In particular, an overview of the influence of the heritage of outstanding architects of theater buildings and their contribution to the development of architecture in general is made. The article shows that the expansion of the typological structure of the architecture of various theaters created the prerequisites for a variety of compositional schemes and a fundamentally different presentation of architectural tasks. Different city-building conditions, typological foundations and individual characteristics of the theater led to the appearance of new buildings that contrast in their structure, style and means of artistic expression. Historical experience shows that theater architecture is as inexhaustible as theater art, as inexhaustible and complex multi-meaning concept of theater.

Historical and cultural heritage and public activities of G.-A. P. Shleifer and his family

The purpose of the article is a comprehensive study of the historical and cultural heritage and public activities of Georgy-Olexandr Pavlovich Shleifer, as a representative of the German Shleifer family, who lived in Ukraine in the second half of the ХІХ – early ХХ centuries. The methodology is based on theprinciples of historicism, systematicity, scientificity, authorial objectivity, moderate narrative constructivism, as well as the use of general scientific and special historical methods. Yes, it ensured knowledge of the historical process and social development of the German ethnic group, especially the Shleifer family, based on the principles of dialectics and logic, taking into account the present. Scientific novelty. Рroved that the German ethnic group contributed to the socio-economic and cultural development of the new Motherland. Also, the issue of the relationship between the German and Ukrainian ethnic groups in various spheres was investigated using the example of a representative of the family of Georgy-Olexander Pavlovich Shleifer – an artist, architect, teacher, public figure. According to the results of this study, a positive assessment was given not only to his fruitful work, but also to the entire Shleifer family. Conclusions. The most priority areas of development have been determined, and in the future, this successful experience during the war will be used for the development of Ukraine. The great experience of German architects is clearly visible in the development of large and small cities of Ukraine. Thus, their unique creativity was manifested in the projects of representative industrial buildings and private houses in a wide variety of styles. This is especiallynoticeable in sacred architecture, not only Catholic and Lutheran churches, but also Orthodox churches and synagogues. In particular, a brilliant example is the architectural masterpieces of the famous specialist Georgy-Olexander Pavlovich Shleifer. He owns the projects of entire blocks of ancient Kyiv, religiousbuildings of various denominations, hotels and theaters. Central unique streets and unusual buildings. The capital of Ukraine is bursting with art, culture and incredible mystical stories. Through numerous parks, mysterious buildings, and the fate of Kyiv residents, we get to know it, discover it, and explore it.Prosopographic studies help to comprehensively and more reliably investigate the life and activities of the family and create a family portrait of members of the Shleifer family.

CONCEPTUAL BASIS OF USING PEOPLE'S VERBAL CREATION EXAMPLES IN THE PROCESS OF TEACHING STUDENTS OF ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECES FROM UZBEKISTAN

his article describes the methodology of using narratives in the process of teaching architectural masterpieces of Uzbekistan to students and the principles of improving the lesson.

Public space and poetic living. The case of Museo Experimental El Eco

This article, inscribed within a broader investigation of public space and poetic living, analyzes Museo Experimental El Eco, one of the masterpieces of modern architecture in Mexico, where the architectural space participates actively in the presentation of diverse artistic manifestations and the public’s emotional, aesthetic, and sensitive experience. “El Eco,” a project embedded in the San Rafael neighborhood in Mexico City, was designed and built between 1952 and 1953 by Mathias Goeritz, a grand plastic artist whose work ranges from the field of graphics to urban sculpture. With his great recognition as an artist and a critical vision of modern architecture, Goeritz is presented with the opportunity to shape an architectural project with few programmatic constraints, his understanding of architecture, which, in turn, condenses in his famous manifesto of emotional architecture. The article presents an analysis of the architectural spatiality of this work, focused on the experience of the place and supported by the compilation and study of the background information, visits, tours on different days, photographic shots, and preparation of the respective plans. Goeritz, like the great artist he was, is able to approach architecture as the result of the meeting of emptiness and matter so that the body’s emotions and sensations in the space flow to structure the very meaning of architectural creation.

TWO VARIATIONS ON THE TOPIC OF ST. YUR’S CATHEDRAL IN LVIV (O. NOVAKIVSKYI – I. KALYNETS – M. SOSENKO)

The purpose of the article is to analyse Ihor Kalynets’s reception of paintings by Lviv artists Oleksa Novakivskyi ‘Yur. The Poem of the World War’ and Modest Sosenko’s ‘St. Yur’s (George’s) Church in Lviv’. The paintings of both artists and their perception by Ihor Kalynets (poems «‘Yur’ by O. Novakivskyi» and «’Yur’ by M. Sosenko») have a lot in common. The painters’ gaze is directed from the bottom up, into the distance, into the future, which is due to the location of the buildings and the angle of observation. However, summarising the observations on Ihor Kalynets’s variations on the topic of the most famous church in Lviv, we should note the prevalence of the distinctive over the common. Oleksa Novakivskyi’s painting provoked the poet’s reflections, which are dominated by the motifs of purity, aspiration and steadfastness, struggle and victory, while Modest Sosenko’s painting evoked a sense of sadness, melancholy and autumnal transparency. The canvas of Lviv artists depict the same object from the same angle, but in different moods. Considering the multivariate artistic perception of the artists, in his works Ihor Kalynets conveys the ‘impression of impressions’ that the artists had while contemplating the majestic building, so these poems contain the features of impressionism. On the other hand, in his ekphrase poems, the poet accumulates the ideological and artistic achievements of three types of art at once: painting (in particular, iconography), literature and architecture. The interaction of these art forms can be summarized on the basis of receptive ‘heredity’, so to speak, the passing of a receptive ‘baton’: the icon of St. Yuriy (George) the Serpent and the architectural masterpiece St. Yur’s Cathedral in Lviv → reception of the cathedral by Oleksa Novakivskyi and Modest Sosenko → the paintings by Oleksa Novakivskyi and Modest Sosenko → reception of those paintings by Ihor Kalynets → the poems «‘Yur’ by O. Novakivskyi» and «’Yur’ by M. Sosenko» → the reader’s reception of the poems. If we take into account that the first mentioning of the cathedral dates back to the thirteenth century (though since then the church has been destroyed and rebuilt), and the reception of the analysed poems continues in the twenty-first century, we have a receptive history of eight centuries.

Development of techno-economic model for rooftop of solar PV in the LINE city of Saudi Arabia

A modernized and smart futuristic city of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia named as �the LINE� city will be constructed in the epic mountains of Tabuk region on the land called NEOM stretching to Red Sea. The city will be mirrored architectural masterpiece with an area of 500 x 200 m2 and will operate entirely on renewable energy majorly solar energy. The planned rooftop of the LINE city will be covered with solar PV panels. Therefore, in this research, a complete investigation of solar PV installation on the roof top was conducted by selecting three main regions of LINE city. Because, the weather conditions are the main dominant factors on efficacy of the solar energy. The research starts with most up-to-date report on LINE city with all associated literature studies and the futuristic vision of KSA(Vision 2030). In the next phase, rooftop of LINE city has been designed to cover with all solar PV panels. The observation was determined by considering the both ends and a middle area of the city. Both theoretical and computational analysis were performed in terms of performance ratio, conversion efficiency, leveled cost of electricity and energy production. The comparative analysis of each case with other case studies were performed to finalized the most optimized solar PV installation region in the LINE city. Analysis of all components of solar PV systems, including arrays, inverters, connections, and storage, to determine the optimal system for meeting demand and assuring sustainability.The research helps to demonstrate the viability of Solar PV installation on specific location of the city. The main objective of the research is to identify the location point where the rooftop panels have the maximum energy production which helps to make the installation and other necessities on this particular location.

Возрождение объектов исторического наследия на Северном Кавказе в условиях урбанизации

Introduction. The Caucasus attracts tourists with its historical heritage, but many monuments are under threat of destruction due to lack of funding. To preserve the heritage and develop the region, a strategy is needed to create a tourism cluster that will contribute to economic growth and the creation of new jobs. Many countries have used their historical monuments to develop tourism and the economy. In Europe and Asia, projects to reconstruct ancient cities and temples have led to an increase in the flow of tourists. The Caucasus has a unique heritage and can become a successful example. Restoring monuments not only preserves history, but also invests in the future of the region, its economy and cultural diversity. Materials and methods. The authors of this study analyzed a number of legislative initiatives, and also analyzed scientific and literary sources in the field of tourism and monument conservation. In addition to this, they conducted practical research using modern methods of physical and mechanical testing of materials and structures. These studies included quality control methods, as well as the use of modern mathematical tools for summarizing and processing experimental and statistical data. In addition to conducting their own research, the authors also took into account the results of previous scientific research and the experience of successful practices in the field of tourism and restoration of monuments. During the analysis of legislative initiatives, they took into account recent changes in legislation relating to the protection of cultural heritage and stimulation of tourism activities. The combined analysis approach included both theoretical and practical aspects, which contributed to a deeper understanding of issues related to tourism and restoration of monuments. This multifaceted approach also provided more accurate and objective results, supported by evidence and analysis. Results. The work provides an overview of the current state of monuments in the Caucasus region and examines their general characteristics. The essence of tourism as a key factor influencing the development of historically significant territories is analyzed. In this context, current trends in the field of tourism that have an impact on the preservation and restoration of the cultural heritage of the region are also considered. The role of tourism in the development of historical monuments of the Caucasus is undoubtedly high. The tourism potential of this region is based on its rich cultural heritage, which includes architectural masterpieces, ancient monuments and numerous archaeological finds. Discussion. Modern research shows that tourism contributes not only to the preservation, but also to the active restoration of objects of historical significance. Scientific and technical solutions play a key role in the process of restoration and maintenance of cultural monuments of the Caucasus. The use of advanced technologies also includes the use of remote monitoring methods, which allow us to constantly monitor the condition of monuments and quickly respond to any changes. This contributes to more effective and sustainable management of the cultural heritage of the Caucasus, preserving it for future generations. In general, the integration of tourism, scientific and technical solutions into the management and restoration of cultural monuments of the Caucasus region is an important aspect of modern practice, contributing to the preservation of the rich historical heritage of this unique region. Conclusion. Fundamental methods and methodologies were developed for organizing and carrying out work on the preservation and restoration of monuments of historical and cultural heritage. In this context, a scale for assessing damage and destruction has been developed, which makes it possible to more accurately determine the extent of damage and select appropriate methods of restoration measures. Based on current trends in the field of restoration and repair of cultural objects, the study included additional data obtained from the latest research and practical developments in this field. New approaches to repair and restoration requirements have been proposed taking into account modern standards and technologies. Resume. As a result of the research, effective repair and restoration compounds were identified, intended for use in various conditions and taking into account the specifics of specific historical and cultural monuments. These compounds meet the high requirements for preserving the authenticity of objects while ensuring the long-term stability of the restored structures. Suggestions for practical applications and future research directions. The research results can be useful in the repair, restoration and restoration of cultural heritage sites (towers, castles, historical monuments) both in the North Caucasus and beyond.

Unveiling the Hidden Secrets of Bomarzo Cathedral: New Evidence from Last Ground-Penetrating Radar Survey

The Bomarzo Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Bomarzo, is a remarkable historical and architectural masterpiece situated in Bomarzo (VT), Italy. Constructed in the 16th century under the sponsorship of the Orsini family, the cathedral’s design is a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Despite enduring numerous challenges, including damage from the Italian Wars, extensive restoration efforts were undertaken to preserve its cultural legacy. Driven by a deep appreciation of the cathedral’s historical context, a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) investigation was deployed to gain insights into its foundations and potentially uncover buried remains beneath the floor and altar. The GPR investigation focused on the cathedral’s interior, specifically the central and left naves, altar, and oratory. This revealed the presence of disclosed rectangular chambers beneath the floor and altar, along with unique foundation structures. These findings, coupled with historical insights and architectural understanding, emphasize the cathedral’s cultural importance.

Endangered Religious Cultural Heritage

In the Carpathian region, there are numerous churches of different denominations built in different architectural styles, including masterpieces of wooden architecture, which are of particular interest from both a cognitive and pilgrimage perspective. The churches of wooden architecture in the Carpathian region are the subject of excursions and cognitive religious tourism, and some of them are included in the UNESCO heritage list. The paper aims to represent and interpret this religious heritage through the narration of places, understood as "topoi" endowed with distinctive identities. The religious heritage of wooden churches is in fact the identity expression of ethnic minorities; identity is substantiated in architecture through the use of particular construction techniques. Starting from the analysis of the heritage of wooden churches in the Carpathian region, the paper intends to propose innovative ways of multiple immersive narratives where the built religious heritage assumes the function of a tool capable of restoring the narrated reality and acting as a support for a hermeneutics of places. Constructing narratives of these places is very important for the preservation of the heritage of wooden churches, which today is experiencing many threats. In addition to bearing witness to local identity processes and conflicts and cooperation between different religions, they are able to increase the attractiveness of their territory and invite and guide visitors to come into contact with these places and establish an empathetic and reciprocal relationship with them.

Special issue from the Symposium on the acoustics of ancient theatres

Ancient theatres are some of the most significant cultural and architectural masterpieces of the ancient world. The Greeks and Romans developed these spaces for entertainment, political and social commentary, religious rituals and artistic expression. They were built with great attention to acoustics and sightlines. The use of materials such as marble, stone, and brick helped to reflect and amplify sound, while seating arrangements and other architectural features were used to optimize the audience's listening experience. Today, many ancient theatres have been restored or preserved and are often still used for public performances including opera, drama, speech and music. Furthermore, researchers continue to study the acoustic properties of these ancient spaces, seeking to better understand the technical and artistic innovations that enabled the creation of such remarkable buildings. These aspects, as well as more interdisciplinary studies, were presented and discussed during the Symposium on The Acoustics of Ancient Theatres, held in Verona from 6 to 8 July 2022. The Symposium, organized by the Acoustical Society of Italy (AIA) and the European Acoustics Association (EAA), with the collaboration of the Hellenic Institute of Acoustics (HELINA), was the second on this topic after the one held in Patras (Greece) in 2011. The program of the Symposium included keynote speeches, presentations in structured sessions, posters, technical visits to the Verona Arena and Roman Theatre, workshops and demos. The visit to the Verona Arena was particularly inspiring, as it was possible to enter the technical areas and backstage usually closed to visitors, thanks to the Stage Director who guided the visit. The evolution and development of new technologies for the multichannel measurement systems, together with acoustic simulations, auralisation methods and virtual reconstructions, have generated renewed interest in these ancient spaces and it is commendable that the Rivista Italiana di Acustica (RIA) is devoting an entire issue to publish some of the works presented during the Symposium. The special issue includes 10 papers, divided into 5 invited contributions, 3 scientific papers and 2 technical notes. Papers dealing with issues related to Italy and its theatres were prioritised. 

The evolution of the multidisciplinary concept of audience space

In ancient Greece, architects sought to ensure that the sound of the voice reached the viewer’s ears “distinctly and pleasantly”. To do this, they turned to the theory of musical resonances and created a multidisciplinary concept of architecture. The precedents of successful audience forms and the development of science helped to create architectural masterpieces with good acoustics. The birth of the science of architectural acoustics at the beginning of the 20th century gave hope for a good prediction of the sound quality of designed auditoriums. But by the middle of the 20th century, it became clear that a new path was required. A new multidisciplinary concept of audience space has been formed at the intersection of the sciences of architectural acoustics and electroacoustics, which meets the social and creative needs of a person to a greater extent.

A milestone in the history of Chinese modern landscape design: the Fangta Park in Shanghai

Fangta Park in Shanghai is a widely admired Chinese modern park and a representative work by Professor Feng Jizhong. A literature review is first used to explain the construction process of Fangta Park, its design philosophy, master plan, and detailed design, followed by an analysis of the park’s design. Previous studies have shown how Feng Jizhong ‘deconstructed’ Western architectural forms using traditional Chinese space concepts, thus generating novel Chinese architectural forms underpinned by Western construction concepts. He adapted rhetorical devices of Chinese traditional poetry and used them in the spatial arrangement and landscape design of Fangta Park, a modern landscape and architectural masterpiece with distinctive Chinese characteristics. Feng Jizhong promoted blending Chinese culture with modern landscape design and illustrated the process of ‘space-time transformation’ with ‘conative space’. Through the design of Fangta Park, he exhibited his individuality and profound scholarship, charting a unique course for modern landscape architecture in China.

P.D. BARANOVSKY AS AN ARCHAEOLOGIST: KOLOMENSKOYE IN THE 1920s–1940s

The article addresses the question of the need to publish a part of the archive of the renowned 20th century architect-conservator Pyotr Dmitrievich Baranovsky. It is associated with his studying of the regal residence of the 16th–19th centuries in the settlement of Kolomenskoye (now the territory of Moscow). This paper publishes part of the review of archaeological works in Kolomenskoye compiled by the researcher in the 1940s and newly found in his archive. The document contains a brief account of the 1930 excavations at the site of the “Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich”, a Moscow’s masterpiece of architecture. So far, no materials recording these works have been known. The found document also includes a description of the restoration of the palace’s stone structures conducted by P.D. Baranovsky in 1923–1928 and presents the context of the archaeological work of 1933 and 1935. Particular attention is paid to the reconstruction of the layout of the palace on the ground and the localization of its stoves, as well as the characteristics of their tiled decor. The article also publishes the analytical graphics by the architect of the 1940s associated with the reconstruction of the remains of the palace and the development of its new model.

The Bauhaus Concept and Its Influence on Contemporary Architectural Design in China

This study employs the iconic modernist architectural landmark, the Dessau Bauhaus school building, as a case study. By scrutinizing the distinctive creative attributes of this architectural masterpiece, the study delves into the design tenets of Bauhaus ideology. Additionally, it conducts an analysis of the resonance between Bauhaus principles and the landscape of modern design in China. Building upon this foundation, the study embarks on a dialectical exploration, leveraging representative instances of contemporary Chinese architectural design, to meticulously examine the impact of Bauhaus on modern Chinese design, with a specific focus on the domain of architectural design.

Akulturasi Arsitektur Bangunan Cina pada Masjid Agung Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon

This research explores the phenomenon of acculturation of Chinese building architecture at the Sang Cipta Rasa Grand Mosque in Cirebon, an exciting case of combining Islamic architecture and traditional Chinese elements. The main focus of this research is to understand how Architectural Chinese elements are integrated into the design of mosque buildings in a harmonious and meaningful way. This research method involves a multidisciplinary approach, including literature analysis, visual observations, and interviews with architects and local historians who have in-depth knowledge of mosques and cultural acculturation in the region. The research results reveal that Grand Mosque successfully created an architectural masterpiece that skillfully combines Chinese Architectural elements. Elements such as a curved Chinese- style roof with decorative ornaments reminiscent of Chinese culture, columns, pillars with distinctive traditional carvings, and decorative motifs on the walls illustrate the influence of Chinese architecture integrated into the mosque's design. Despite the strong Chinese influence, this building maintains the essence of Islam and local culture. This research contributes to understanding how cultural acculturation can be reflected in the physical form of buildings, especially in religious contexts. The results of this research can be a valuable reference for the planning and development of future structures that harmonize elements from different cultures while respecting the values and goals of each culture involved.

Films “of Eastern Life” of the 1920s in the Light of Intercultural Communication among the Peoples of the USSR

The article explores various films “about Eastern life” of the 1920s, conducting a historical and anthropological analysis of the content of these films and their reviews from the perspective of intercultural communication. The research methodology is grounded in the semiotic tradition and the communicative model proposed by Yu. M. Lotman. Printed media texts and visual sources (films) were used in the composition of this article. The aim of this piece is to expose the communicative functions of cinematography as a medium for information exchange and to ascertain the cognitive possibilities of silent cinema for the communicative interaction of the peoples of our country.
 Films “from Eastern life” had to conform to certain criteria, taking into account the idiosyncrasies of the national mentality of the inhabitants of the eastern outskirts. The study revealed that legends were employed in scriptwriting as a phenomenon of folk spiritual culture. Films inspired by folklore depict architectural masterpieces and the diverse nature of different regions. The harem theme popular in Western Europe found its way into Soviet films “about Eastern life”, but the quest for the “false exotic of the East” often resulted in communication breakdowns. The “inauthentic” portrayal of the East did not resonate with viewers and film critics.
 Nevertheless, silent films of the 1920s introduced the ethno-confessional characteristics of peoples, their history, traditional way of life, mores, and customs. These films contributed to the broadening of the national worldview, thereby confirming the high cognitive potential and significance of cinema in the intercultural communication within the multi-ethnic landscape of the USSR.

Preparation for the restoration of building structures of Palmyra’s architectural monuments in Syria affected by the war

Abstract: Introduction. The historical architectural monuments of world significance of the city of Palmyra in Syria, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, such as the Monumental (Triumphal) Arch, the Temple of Bel, and the Temple of Baalshamin are described. The history of their creation in the city of Palmyra, their significance for the inhabitants of Palmyra of that period and destruction from past earthquakes and during hostilities since 2015 are given. The importance of these monuments for the country and the world community is indicated, which was the reason for their choice as objects for research.
 Aim. The research is intended to contribute to the restoration of these masterpieces of world architecture, which have existed for a little less than two millennia.
 Materials and methods. A kind of certification of architectural monuments on the territory of Palmyra was carried out using the visual method of studying the state of objects. A detailed description and characteristics of the above-mentioned objects built as a synthesis of Greco-Roman and ancient Near Eastern architecture are given. The distinctive features and dimensions of building structures are described, plans, sections and photographs of objects before and after destruction are given for their subsequent reconstruction virtually in 3D. To improve the accuracy of three-dimensional models, various projects of 3D models of Palmyra’s architectural monuments, created by various scientists and organizations, were collected.
 Results. The states of the architectural monuments of Palmyra before and after the destruction were recorded, followed by their reconstruction in 3D for future restoration. 
 Conclusions. Conclusions are drawn about the expediency of restoring the architectural monuments of Palmyra, since they are of great importance for the entire world community, and many of them are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.