Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award of Merit 2025

Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award of Merit 2025

Daily Current Affairs   /   Vasai Cathedral Wins UNESCO Award of Merit 2025

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Category : Awards Published on: February 24 2026

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  • The 475-year-old Our Lady of Grace Cathedral has received the Award of Merit at the 2025 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, announced in Bangkok. The recognition honours its community-led restoration and revival as a living place of worship.
  • Located in Vasai (formerly Bassein), the 16th-century cathedral reflects Portuguese-era architecture in western India. Built using mud-based stone construction without cement or bricks, the structure had deteriorated due to monsoons and past repairs. The ₹4.5 crore restoration strengthened the roof, façade, bell tower, corridors, and intricate interiors while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
  • Led by conservation architect Ainsley Lewis, the project was funded through donations from parish members and local stakeholders. The UNESCO jury, which evaluated 90 entries from 16 countries, praised the technical excellence, sustainability, and strong community participation behind the restoration.
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