The stigma of the catastrophe and the cultural heritage of the Chernobyl zone

A breakdown of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant became a reference point for countless debates on the global consequences of introducing the nuclear technology. The most severe aftermaths of the catastrophe were witnessed, however, not because of radioactive contamination, but as a result of the resettlement of 336 thousand people and the degradation of the unique cultural heritage of eastern Polissia. Chernobyl, due to the stigma of radioactive contamination and apocalyptic landscapes, is perceived in complete detachment from its rich history and tradition. It has been stigmatised by the myths and stereotypes of mass culture. The article presents the specificity of eastern Polissia and discusses the Ukrainian researchers’ activities, conducted for many years, to rescue the relics of Polissia culture in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. It presents problems arising from the gradual degradation of traditional architecture in this area. As conservatory activities have not been carried out for many years and considering the lack of the overall vision of protection, this heritage may be completely destroyed in the near future.
 

A breakdown of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant became a reference point for countless debates on the global consequences of introducing the nuclear technology. The most severe aftermaths of the catastrophe were witnessed, however, not because of radioactive contamination, but as a result of the resettlement of 336 thousand people and the degradation of the unique cultural heritage of eastern Polissia. Chernobyl, due to the stigma of radioactive contamination and apocalyptic landscapes, is perceived in complete detachment from its rich history and tradition. It has been stigmatised by the myths and stereotypes of mass culture. The article presents the specificity of eastern Polissia and discusses the Ukrainian researchers’ activities, conducted for many years, to rescue the relics of Polissia culture in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. It presents problems arising from the gradual degradation of traditional architecture in this area. As conservatory activities have not been carried out for many years and considering the lack of the overall vision of protection, this heritage may be completely destroyed in the near future.