St. Bonaventure Cathedral in Banja Luka undergoes renovation appeal

The Banjaluka Diocese has launched an appeal for donations to fund the extensive renovation of St. Bonaventure Cathedral in Banja Luka. The project is divided into two phases. The first phase focuses on repairing the exterior facade, replacing worn woodwork, renovating the bell tower, and conserving the foundations of the original cathedral. The second phase involves installing stained glass windows and air conditioning.

The diocese noted that a significant decline in the number of faithful has made it difficult to self-finance the works. The Catholic population in the region has decreased from over 120,000 before the war to approximately 23,000 today. While some funding has been secured through municipalities with Croatian majorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Federal Ministry for Displaced Persons and Refugees, additional support is required to complete the planned stages.

The current cathedral was built between 1972 and 1973 following a devastating earthquake in 1969 that destroyed the original 19th-century structure. The building's design, created by architect Matasović, utilizes the symbolism of a tent to represent both the biblical presence of God and the temporary shelters used by displaced persons after the earthquake.