On August 16, protective structures made of sandbags were dismantled around the Duke de Richelieu monument on Primorsky Boulevard in Odesa.
This was reported by Odeske Zhyttia.
The monument was covered with sandbags in the spring of 2022 to protect it from debris and blast waves. Around 6,500 bags weighing approximately 185 tonnes in total were placed around the monument.
Over time, the sand absorbed moisture and became compacted. Constant dampness and pressure on the bronze surface created a risk of damage to the sculpture and its pedestal.
In the spring of 2026, specialists noted cracks, corrosion and moss growing inside the protective structure.
After the upper section of the shelter was removed, specialists found no critical destruction or missing elements of the monument. At the same time, visible traces of corrosion and other damage were found on the bronze surface.
After the sandbags are fully removed, specialists are expected to conduct a detailed inspection of the monument and determine the scope and timeframe of restoration work.
Odesa City Council deputy Petro Obukhov said that sandbag protection was justified at the beginning of the full-scale invasion, but the nature of Russian attacks has changed and such a structure can no longer protect the monument from a direct missile or attack-drone strike.
According to him, keeping the monument under sandbags for a long period may also damage the bronze due to moisture and a lack of proper ventilation.
