
Valencia's Baroque Masterpiece Restored: A Green Revolution in Art Preservation
Valencia's Sant Joan del Mercat Church Undergoes Historic Bio-Cleaning Restoration Valencia, Spain – The church of Sant Joan del Mercat, a renowned example of Baroque architecture, is nearing the completion of an ambitious four-year bio-cleaning restoration project. Funded by the Hortensia Herrero Foundation, the project employs cutting-edge, environmentally friendly techniques to preserve the church's priceless frescoes and sculptures. The restoration is considered a world-class undertaking, tackling challenges previously insurmountable. "This project is nearly finished after four years," explains Pilar Roig Picazo, the project's lead restorer. "The intervention is integral, encompassing both the sculptural and pictorial aspects of the church, including Palomino's frescoes." The project's success is particularly poignant given the church's history, including a devastating fire in 1936 that severely damaged the artwork. The bio-cleaning methods have proven effective in restoring areas previously considered lost. The use of techniques like laser cleaning has allowed restorers to access and revitalize delicate sections of the artwork. The intricate detail of the restoration is evident in the video, showcasing the painstaking work involved in preserving this historical treasure. The completion of this project marks not only the preservation of a significant piece of Valencian heritage but also a testament to the power of innovative restoration techniques in preserving cultural landmarks for future generations.