RESTORATION CHALLENGES OF 18TH–20TH CENTURY POLISH & GERMAN WOODEN CHURCHES IN WESTERN UKRAINE

Preserved wooden Roman Catholic churches of the Lviv region were constructed between the 18th and 20th centuries. Although small in number, they represent a highly valuable historical heritage due to the inherent vulnerability of wood as a building material. As of 2023-2024, the authors conducted an on-site examination of these wooden churches in the Lviv region, assessing their current condition, functionality, preservation prospects for their architectural form and the need for restoration measures. The authors propose a conceptual classification of these structures into subgroups based on the levels of risk of deterioration, challenges in preserving their authentic architectural forms and structures and the modern socio-economic circumstances surrounding the existence of these monuments. A comprehensive conceptual program of measures is suggested for the preservation, restoration and risk mitigation of these churches, encompassing economic and socio-revitalization actions to safeguard and restore their authentic stylistic features and promote these sites. The program also includes technical stabilization recommendations aimed at preserving and restoring the material structure of the churches, including their constructive and finishing materials.