Although the hypogeum never suffered any significant architectural losses, its remarkable decorative program has been extensively damaged by centuries of lime deposits and biological growth. The deterioration of the murals has been exacerbated by increased water infiltration caused by altercations to the small parish church above the monumental complex. (...)
Although the hypogeum never suffered any significant architectural losses, its remarkable decorative program has been extensively damaged by centuries of lime deposits and biological growth. The deterioration of the murals has been exacerbated by increased water infiltration caused by altercations to the small parish church above the monumental complex. Inappropriate conservation materials used during a 1960s restoration project have had a continued negative effect on the valuable fifth-century frescoes, but the institutions responsible for the hypogeum have lacked funding for its regular maintenance and care.
After placing the hypogeum on the 1996 World Monuments Watch, WMF began a four-year comprehensive diagnostic survey of the frescoes. Following the extensive conditions report and analysis, a 12-month microclimate survey was conducted to assess the humidity conditions of the air and wall surfaces in the vaults. A series of conservation tests established guidelines for future restoration and maintenance of the murals. The historically and architecturally significant site was relisted on the 2006 Watch to emphasize that more work was necessary to ensure its survival.
