LocationsBreathing New Life into Slauharad’s Historic Heritage
December 10, 2024
An unassuming hill draped in the greenery of an old park in Slauharad might not immediately catch the eye. Yet, it was here, on the right bank of the Sozh River, that the town formerly known as Prapojsk took root.
Zamkavaya Hara, or Castle Hill, was once the settlement of an ancient Slavic tribe. This historic site has recently been given a new start thanks to the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme that initiated a park restoration project in collaboration with UNDP. Renovation is just one part of the initiative, honoring the past, while sustainability and inclusivity will define the future of urban development.
The city's name has evolved over the centuries. Initially known as Prupoj, meaning ' a strong whirlpool at the confluence of rivers,' it later transformed into Praposhansk and eventually Prapojsk.
A Bridge Through Time
Ancient hillforts are living relics of history, preserving cultural memory and shaping the modern identity of local communities.
Slauharad is no exception. Its Zamkavaya Hara is a trove of archaeological treasures, ranging from Neolithic artefacts to remnants of medieval fortifications. Among the discoveries unearthed on the hill are traces of a 10th-century wooden stockade and a 12th-century castle that once served as the defensive stronghold of medieval Propojsk.
While time has claimed much of the original structures, a park now stands in their place, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Sozh and Pronia rivers. The area became a symbolic link between Slauharad’s past and present. Yet, decades of neglect threatened to erase its historical and cultural significance altogether.
A new start
Today, the site is being revitalised through the joint effort of residents and the town administration who share a vision for the area’s transformation.
With the support of GEF and UNDP, the process began by clearing overgrowth and regreening the area. New trees and shrubs breathed new life into the landscape, while decorative flowerbeds added a splash of color.
Convenient pedestrian paths illuminated by energy-efficient solar lights followed, inviting visitors to take a stroll.
Benches and art installations inspired by the era of Catherine the Great lend a touch of historic charm.
Crucially, the landmark’s redesign prioritises inclusivity, a detail often overlooked in heritage restoration. Special attention is being paid to creating a barrier-free environment, ensuring that the park’s grounds are accessible to people with disabilities.
The restoration of Zamkavaya Hara is not merely about preserving historical legacy. It is a forward-looking investment to the city’s green future. The park will serve as a natural buffer against environmental pollution, improve air quality, and help reduce noise levels in the surrounding area.
Plans are also underway to establish an ecological trail on the hill, alongside the annual Prapojskija Istoki (Prapojsk Origins) festival. These initiatives are set to boost the city’s allure for tourists, while simultaneously creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Reviving the past for a sustainable future
The initiative to revive Slauharad’s historic site is a prime example of how restoring cultural heritage can seamlessly blend with environmental conservation, becoming an integral part of sustainable urban development. Beyond preservation, such investments in small towns stimulate socio-economic growth, creating new opportunities for local communities.
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