First Stone Wall Restoration Course for 50+ Completed!
From September 10th to 12th, 2026, the picturesque Nogo village in Rõuge municipality, Estonia, hosted a highly practical educational event – the first Stone Wall Restoration Course dedicated to senior professionals.
This specialized training was designed specifically for construction and restoration specialists, as well as ambitious career changers aged 50 and over who are steering their professional paths toward the traditional construction and heritage field.
Hands-On Heritage Restoration
Over the course of three intensive days, participants rolled up their sleeves and engaged in genuine preservation work. The core project involved tackling a decayed, historical stone wall. The group systematically dismantled the ruined sections, carefully cleaned and salvaged the usable stones, and cut new ones to replace those lost to time. In addition to grouting the remaining historic wall structure, the trainees successfully laid an entirely new, structurally sound section of the wall.
Learning from a Master
Under the expert supervision and guidance of master instructor Alvar Riismandel, attendees gained comprehensive, hands-on experience in every step of the restoration process. The practical curriculum focused on mastering traditional building techniques, including:
- Stone processing and cutting
- Traditional mortar mixing
- Structural binding methods
- Meticulous joint filling
Supported by Tradition4Transition
Empowering senior professionals and preserving historical building practices is a vital mission. Thanks to the Interreg Central Baltic Programme project Tradition4Transition, the participation costs for the 50+ target group were fully covered. This initiative not only breathes new life into Estonia’s rural heritage but also ensures that the invaluable skills of traditional construction are kept alive and mastered by dedicated professionals.
