GEOENGINEERING MONITORING AND PRESERVATION STRATEGY FOR UNIQUE UNDERGROUND STRUCTURES THE CASE OF THE ST. ANTHONY’S CAVES, CHERNIHIV

• Дата: 2025
• Автори: Кріль, Т.В., Черевко, І.А.
• Формат: Стаття
• Мова: Українська
• Опубліковано: Institute of Geological Sciences, NAS of Ukraine 2025
• Онлайн доступ: http://geojournal.igs-nas.org.ua/article/view/345841
• Назва журналу: Geological journal

This paper presents the results of engineering-geological, microclimatic, and geotechnical investigations of the St. Anthony’s Caves complex, located within the landslide-prone slope of Boldyna Hill in Chernihiv, Ukraine. Together with St. Elijah Church, the St. Anthony’s Caves represent a key monument of the National Architectural and Historical Reserve “Ancient Chernihiv” and are highly vulnerable to natural and anthropogenic impacts. Field surveys conducted on 9 July 2025 revealed active geohazards: soil collapses, delamination and spalling, condensation-induced wetting, and extensive mold growth. These processes are caused primarily by precipitation infiltration and insufficient ventilation. Instrumental measurements (SM150T – soil volumetric moisture, TESTO 606-2 – plaster moisture, MV-4M – psychrometer) recorded relative air humidity up to 96.7 % and soil volumetric moisture up to 27.8 %, significantly exceeding background values and indicating a high degree of water saturation. Spatial analysis performed in ArcGIS confirmed the influence of geomorphological conditions and the properties of loess-like deposits with high filtration capacity on the formation of unstable zones. Analysis of the seasonal dynamics of dew-point temperature and condensation conditions on the cave walls made it possible, for the first time, to identify risk levels for additional moisture accumulation on soil walls and to assess potential consequences for the technical condition of the complex. Numerical modelling of the stress–strain state of soils in the near-cave space showed a potential decrease in their structural strength and an increased risk of local rock falls during periods of active condensation on the cave walls. Based on the obtained data, a comprehensive set of measures is proposed: systematic monitoring, microclimate normalization, waterproofing protection, and slope stabilization. The research results provide a scientifically grounded basis for developing a comprehensive roadmap for the long-term preservation strategy of this underground historical and architectural complex. The integrated approach presented in the paper ensures an improved level of preservation of this unique hypogean monument and can be applied to other underground cultural heritage sites situated in similar geological settings.