The Massandra Palace in Crimea has regained its voice with the restoration of its antique clock. The clock face of the historic timepiece has been restored according to the drawings of architect Maximilian Mesmacher. But what truly sets these clocks apart is the addition of a "live voice" – the sound of bells from Yaroslavl. The director of the Alupka Palace and Park Museum-Preserve, Alexander Balinchenko, spoke to "Crimea 24" about the restoration, mentioning that the clock itself was manufactured at Friedrich Winter's factory.
"The palace has regained its voice. Our staff worked at the Academy of Fine Arts Museum and discovered descriptions of the sculptures in the archive, including the building that was planned to be constructed. Among them was Mesmacher's clock face - Friedrich Winter's clock," he said. With the support of patrons and the resources of the museum in St. Petersburg, a company was found to realize this interesting project. Special electromagnetic mechanisms were also installed, allowing the clocks to emit sound and chime at specific times.
"On different holidays, melodies from the 19th century and even the hymn 'God Save the Tsar!' can be heard. They have a very delicate and beautiful voice, I highly recommend visiting and listening," Balinchenko noted. As part of the restoration, 29 lost sculptures will also be recreated, the interior and exterior of the palace will be refreshed, and the courtyard area will be tidied up.
