Kiri

Suur-Karja 23 / 15076 Tallinn, Estonia / + 372 628 2222 / min@kul.ee / www.kul.ee / Registration No 70000941

Mrs Elena Bianchi

Programme Manager

European Heritage Awards 19.11.2024 No 12-6/1310-1

Reference letter of support for Europa

Nostra award

Dear Europa Nostra Awards Jury,

It is with great honor and admiration that Estonia nominates Mr Boris Dubovik for the prestigious

Europa Nostra Heritage Champions Award. A guardian of Estonia’s cultural heritage, Mr Dubovik

has dedicated his life to preserving, restoring and promoting the invaluable legacy of Tallinn’s Old

Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true European cultural treasure.

Over decades of tireless service, Mr Dubovik has not only excelled in his professional capacity as

a heritage expert but has also gone above and beyond as a volunteer, educator and advocate for

heritage preservation. His work has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Tallinn and

Estonia, benefiting locals and visitors from around the world.

Boris served for over two decades as the head of Tallinn’s Heritage Conservation Department,

where he spearheaded numerous significant restoration and revitalization projects to safeguard the

architectural and historical integrity of Tallinn’s Old Town. His leadership in this role laid the

foundation for much of the city's success as a model for heritage management.

Among Boris’s most notable achievements are:

 Revitalization of Tallinn’s churches: Under his guidance, efforts to restore Tallinn’s

historic churches have breathed new life into these spiritual and architectural landmarks.

His work has ensured these spaces continue to inspire and serve communities while

preserving their artistic and cultural essence.

 Bastion belt restoration: Mr Dubovik spearheaded initiatives to rehabilitate the bastion

fortifications surrounding the Old Town, transforming them into functional and engaging

public spaces. His vision not only preserved their historical significance but also integrated

them into modern urban life, showcasing a sustainable approach to heritage use.

 Preservation of residential architecture: Through detailed research and advocacy, he has

protected historic residential buildings, ensuring that Tallinn’s Old Town remains a living,

vibrant district rather than a museum piece.

 Public Recognition Through Literature: He’s dedication and passion were immortalized

in the book „Vanalinn minu lemmik“ (The Old Town, My Favorite) in 2017, which

recounts his personal journey. This inspiring story details how a young Boris became

enchanted by Tallinn’s Old Town and decided to devote his life to its protection and

restoration. The book not only celebrates his career but also shares his vision and deep love

for heritage with a wider audience.

Mr Dubovik’s impact extends far beyond physical restoration projects. He has been instrumental

in educating Estonians and international audiences about the value of cultural heritage. Through

public lectures and guided tours, he has shared his extensive knowledge, inspiring countless

individuals to appreciate and protect our shared history.

Boris Dubovik’s lifelong dedication to protecting and revitalizing Tallinn’s Old Town exemplifies

the very values that Europa Nostra seeks to honor. His combination of professional expertise,

community engagement and volunteerism has created a legacy that will inspire future generations.

His contributions have not only benefited Estonia but have enriched the cultural heritage of Europe

as a whole.

It is our sincere hope that the jury recognizes Boris Dubovik’s extraordinary achievements by

awarding him the Europa Nostra Heritage Champions Award. Few individuals embody the spirit

of heritage conservation as completely as Boris does and his work serves as a shining example for

us all.

Thank you for considering this exceptional candidate for this distinguished recognition.

Yours sincerely,

(signed digitally)

{Märt Volmer}

acting as the Undersecretary for Cultural Heritage

Reesi Sild +372 6282381

Reesi.Sild@kul.ee