Stunning insect paintings discovered on Cesvaine Palace tower wall
While cleaning the tower walls of Cesvaine Palace, staff uncovered ancient insect paintings beneath thick chalk layers and decades of graffiti. The artworks date back to the palace's early days when it was home to the Wulf family.
A surprising discovery has been made at Cesvaine Palace. While removing layers of chalk and countless inscriptions carved by visitors over the decades, workers on the upper part of the tower wall revealed unexpected paintings: butterflies, dragonflies, mosquitoes, and other insects.
Project manager Beāte Šulmane noted that the palace's interior has been heavily influenced by its 83 years as a school and a devastating fire in 2002. Extensive restoration work began after the fire and continues. Restorer Madara Rasiņa, who has worked on the palace's restoration, said the drawings were created in the palace's early years when it was the residence of the Wulf family. The paint remains stable—it does not crumble or fade quickly, so visitors will be able to see it for a long time.
Other restoration projects are also underway. In mid-July, work on the third-floor tower room was completed, bringing it closer to its original appearance. The room, previously closed to visitors, is now open for viewing. Soon, work will begin on the main hall, where decorative beams will be examined and conserved.
