An act of vandalism has been recorded at Baikove Cemetery in Kyiv: vandals damaged ancient burials, including the grave of the renowned physician Ludwik Huretsky.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Destroyed Historical Tombstones and Unique Monuments
Scattered remnants of yellow Kyiv bricks, fragments of stucco, and broken gravestones were observed in the area of plot 27 of one of the oldest necropolises in the capital. The grave of the famous professor from Saint Volodymyr University, Ludwik Huretsky, who first conducted smallpox vaccination in Kyiv in 1871, was particularly affected. A discarded cross from this burial was also found on site.
“In plot 27 of one of the oldest cemeteries in Kyiv, scattered yellow Kyiv bricks and fragments of decoration (stucco) from old burials can be seen. In the grass — a broken gravestone and a discarded cross. The latter belongs to the doctor of medicine, professor at Saint Volodymyr University in Kyiv L. Huretsky. He was the first to conduct smallpox vaccination in Kyiv in 1871,” wrote Dmytro Perov.
It has been reported that Huretsky’s grave is located in the Polish (Catholic) section of the old Baikove Cemetery, where other prominent members of the Polish community in Kyiv are also buried. Several other historical Polish burials have been damaged due to the actions of unidentified individuals.
Possible Motives for Vandalism and Comments from Activists
Activists speculate about the motives behind the destruction of the graves. In particular, there is talk of a possible attempt to illegally clear the area for new burials, as plots at Baikove Cemetery have a high value on the black market.
“Judging by the nature of the destruction, the area is being cleared for new burials. On the black market, a spot here can reach up to 50 thousand dollars,” suggested Dmytro Perov.
Heritage protectors emphasize the importance of preserving historical necropolises and urge the responsible authorities to investigate this incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
