US Embassy in Kathmandu today announced this year’s recipient of the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation. Following a worldwide competition, grant has been awarded to the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust  to support conservation and seismic strengthening of the 18th-century octagonal Krishna temple in Patan Durbar Square.

Through the AFCP, the US Embassy will provide $150,000 to KVPT to conserve the shikhara-style Krishna temple, which was built in 1723.  The project will stabilise, seismically strengthen, and support urgent restoration work needed to conserve the temple, which was significantly weakened during the 2015-earthquakes, said a press release issued by the embassy.

As part of the KVPT’s five-year earthquake response campaign, the project will employ local artisans to restore this historic stone structure using the highest international standards.

“Our over two decade long cultural preservation partnership with Nepal is a tangible symbol of mutual friendship and shows our respect for Nepal’s diverse and rich heritage,” said Ambassador Randy Berry in the release.

....