Archaeologists have found a unique furnace beneath the capital’s church
This is reported by Kyiv24
During archaeological research at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, located at the foot of Castle Hill in Kontraktova Square, Kyiv, scientists discovered the remnants of an ancient furnace. This furnace once provided heating for this sacred structure.
Historical Significance of the Discovery
Experts reported that they initially suspected the underground structure might be a burial crypt, as many notable figures are buried beneath and around the church. However, after a detailed examination, archaeologists identified the object as the basement of a 19th-century bell tower, which resembles a large furnace with branching flue channels.
“An incredible discovery! The vault located in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, directly beneath the modern stairs, could be a gigantic ‘calorifer’ furnace,” the statement reads.
In the 19th century, Europe began to implement systematic heating in large stone churches, as people often froze in them before. Powerful furnaces were built in the basements of such structures, burning coal or wood. Hot air was generated in a special heating chamber and then distributed through air ducts beneath the floor. Eventually, the heat was released through grates in the floor or walls, providing warmth to the space.
Prospects for Further Research
Scientists note that there is currently a lack of information regarding the presence of similar heating systems in other Kyiv churches. Many such structures were destroyed during the Soviet era, making it quite difficult to confirm or refute their use in other churches.
“We do not know whether other Kyiv churches had similar heating systems — a significant number were destroyed by Soviet barbarians, but in the also destroyed Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, it is almost certain that this wonderful heating system existed. This question requires further research,” said the staff of the reserve.
The discovery in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church allows for a deeper understanding of how comfort was provided in large sacred structures in Kyiv in the past. Further archaeological research may shed light on other unknown pages of the history of this ancient city.