MARCH 2026
Monthly Progress Summary
OVERVIEW
Work continued during the first part of March and broadened to untreated parts of the main vault, access areas, altar and portals. Documentation, cleaning and a major structural investigation campaign advanced before the international team left the site on 8 March because of regional security conditions.
KEY PROGRESS
- Extended photographic and thematic mapping to the altar and portals, completed geometric surveys of the Grotto and St. Jerome's Grotto, and supported laser scanning through temporary dismantling and reinstatement.
- Sampled altar mosaic bedding mortar, south-portal plaster and finishes, and red and dark paint films for laboratory characterisation.
- Performed sonic tests on the main vault, Manger column and Armenian and Greek Orthodox corners, together with core drilling in the north wall and vault.
- The north-wall cores identified squared stone facing approximately 15 cm thick; representative samples were transferred for specialist testing in Italy.
- Carried out single and double flat-jack tests at the transept corners and continued controlled cleaning of staircases, marble, altar and Manger surfaces.
IN BRIEF: On-site work was suspended from 8 March. Laboratory analysis and diagnostic review continued off site, while remobilisation and a recovery plan became immediate priorities.
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