Csíksomlyó Basilica completes major exterior renovation phase

The exterior renovation of the Csíksomlyó Basilica in Romania has reached a significant milestone with the removal of scaffolding from the main facade. The project, which began in the spring of 2024, has seen the replacement of the roof, the restoration of the towers, and the cleaning of the facade using high-pressure water and traditional plaster patterns.

Albert István Leánder, the Franciscan superior and renovation coordinator, noted that while the most visible work is complete, several smaller tasks remain. These include repairs to the base of the walls, the restoration of entrance doors and stone frames, and final roofing metalwork. Due to weather conditions, some remaining tasks will be completed in warmer months using industrial climbers rather than scaffolding.

In addition to the basilica, work has also been conducted on the adjacent Franciscan monastery. During the renovation of the towers, a time capsule was discovered. The project aims to have the site ready for the Pentecost feast in 2025.