UNESCO to add Venice to list of world heritage sites

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
1 Aug 2023 23:45

UNESCO plans to recommend adding Venice to its list of World Heritage sites in Danger due to simultaneous threats from climate change, mass tourism, and rapid urban development.

Boats sail during the water parade, part of the Venice Carnival, in Venice, Italy, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. (AP)

UNESCO has proposed adding Venice to the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger. Venice, which is renowned for its architecture and artworks, is facing a perilous future as it grapples with an array of threats.

The designation aims to spur international support and prompt remedial actions to safeguard the city, as it contends with challenges from climate change, mass tourism, and rapid urban development.

Climate scientists have warned that Venice could be submerged entirely by 2100 due to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. In 2019, record floods caused damage to cultural sites, including St. Mark's Basilica. The city has since implemented measures like sea walls and glass barriers to mitigate potential deluges.

Mass tourism, with 25 million annual visitors pre-pandemic, has further strained Venice's delicate ecosystem. Italy has taken steps to curb tourism and related pollution, including banning cruise ships from approaching the island and proposing a day-trip tourist fee.

While Italy has made efforts to protect the city, UNESCO's latest report finds that additional sustainable measures are necessary. The agency's proposal highlights the urgency of addressing these issues to preserve Venice's treasured cultural heritage for future generations.