See Before They’re Gone: 7 Endangered Sites in Europe

What with destruction of ancient historical sites in Syria and Iraq by ISIS, the blowing up of the 1,700 year old Buddhas of Bamiyan in Afghanistan by the Taliban, and the general wear and tear that all world heritage sites suffer from natural timeworn deterioration and the impact of visitors, there is a rush to protect sites of importance by various organizations. One such group is Europa Nostra, the “Voice of Cultural Heritage in Europe.”

Formed in 1963, Europa Nostra is currently led by President Placido Domingo, the famed Spanish opera singer, and this month it revealed its top 7 most endangered sites on the continent, each of which it believes requires urgent action to prevent neglect.

Culture+Travel takes a look at each of the seven (click “slideshow” above), to examine why the seven have been highlighted, from the archaeological site of Ererouyk and the village of Ani Pemza in Armenia, to Patarei Sea Fortress in Tallinn in Estonia, Helsinki-Malmi Airport in Finland, Colbert Swing Bridge in Dieppe in France, the Kampos of Chios in Greece, the Convent of St. Anthony of Padua in Extremadura in Spain, and the Ancient city of Hasankeyf in Turkey.

“This list spotlights rare examples of Europe’s cultural and natural heritage that are at risk of being lost forever,” says Domingo. “The local communities are firmly engaged in trying to save these testaments to our shared story but need widespread support. On behalf of Europa Nostra, I urge national and European stakeholders, both public and private, to join forces with us to ensure a promising future for these sites.”

And it’s not just these seven. In fact, Europa Nostra has designated Venice Lagoon in Italy as the most endangered heritage site in Europe, even above the seven, “given the paramount importance of this heritage landmark to Europe and the world, as well as the complexity and magnitude of the challenges posed.”

The “7 Most Endangered” programme is now its it fourth year and was inspired by a project by the US National Trust for Historic Preservation, to create cause for action. This year the seven were selected from 14 sites shortlisted, according to the danger of their disappearance.

Follow us on Twitter – @Cultravel