A local cultural association, Alma Finalis, has launched an appeal for funds to restore the centuries-old Jewish cemetery in Finale Emilia, Italy. It hopes to raise €19,500 for the project.
The web site outlines a detailed methodology including:
— Initial removal of the moss and lichens using sorghum brushes
— impregnation of the stone surfaces with herbicide spray
— Further cleaning and rinsing with cellulose compresses, soft brushes and various solutions to remove all the lichens, mold, algae, etc
— Consolidation of the marble surface with ethyl silicate
— Using marble dust, slaked lime, and other components to fill crevices and tone the surfaces
— Re-attaching broken-off parts with epoxy and steel pins.
– Carrying out a final protective treatment using a brush using benzalkonium chloride, to prevent regrowth of mold and lichens.
Finale Emilia was at the epicenter of a devastating earthquake in 2012, and the Union of Italian Jewish Communities has allocated funds to help with rebuild the town’s school.