Biocorrosion of Frescoes in the Baptistery of the Church of the Saint Zosima and Savvatiy of Solovetsky of the Holy Trinity Sergius Lavra

Abstract

The article discusses the destruction of the frescoes in the baptistery of the church of the Monk Zosima and Savatiy Solovetsky of the Holy Trinity Sergius Lavra. Some time after the walls of the basement of the temple were painted with frescoes, their destruction under the action of microorganisms, as well as an increase in the humidity of the walls, were discovered. The study showed that the reasons for this were due to the improper waterproofing of the roof of the temple, as well as its foundation. After the partial repair of the roof and foundation, carried out in 2014, as well as the installation of dehumidifiers in the baptistery, the condition of the interior of the baptistery has improved significantly.

However, as shown by the inspection conducted in February 2022, the flow of a significant amount of moisture through the walls into the interior of the baptistery continues. At the same time, the destruction of frescoes continues, and the development of biological damage is intensified due to efflorescence. In those rooms where the influence of the operation of air dehumidifiers is reduced, areas are identified where the wall surfaces are damp.
Based on the research and observations carried out, recommendations were given to prevent biological damage to the wall  aintings of the baptistery, which can be used for the frescoes of temples, the walls of which are subject to moisture.