Europa Nostra: 3 Cycladic Islands on Most Endangered Sites 2024 Shortlist

Three Cycladic islands, notably Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros, are among the 11 most threatened heritage sites in Europe, shortlisted for the “7 Most Endangered” program of Europa Nostra for 2024.

The 7 Most Endangered Programme forms part of a civil society campaign to save Europe’s endangered heritage. Launched in 2013, the innovative programme is run by Europa Nostra in partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB) Institute. It also has the support of the Creative Europe program of the European Union.

According to Europa Nostra, the Cyclades, renowned for their unique charm and rich culture, find themselves grappling with a “myriad of challenges” posed by the surge in tourism development and rampant construction.

Photo source: Europa Nostra

“Of particular concern are the smaller island destinations within the Cyclades, which bear the brunt of overtourism. The strain on infrastructure and the escalating demand for accommodation present significant challenges,” says Europa Nostra.

The nomination of the Cyclades, in particular of the islands of Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros, to the 7 Most Endangered Program 2024 was made by Elliniki Etairia – Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage.

The nominator advocates for strategic policy-based measures to address the pressing issues in the Cyclades, proposing a comprehensive approach to safeguard the islands’ integrity. Immediate priorities include establishing the Special Spatial Plan for Tourism to regulate and manage activities, along with instituting a binding Regional Spatial Plan of South Aegean.

Photo Source: Europa Nostra / Photo Credit: Baboussis

Focusing on the three Cycladic islands of Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros, the nominator initiated impactful actions. Proposals submitted during public consultations address critical aspects such as tourism investment placement, overbuilding, and protection of natural and agricultural areas.

According to Europa Nostra, the nominator envisions utilising the 7 Most Endangered Programme to raise awareness about uncontrolled development and influencing government policies for improved urban planning within the islands. Supporters in the campaign include the mayors of the three islands of Serifos, Sifnos and Folegandros.

11 European heritage sites shortlisted for the 7 Most Endangered Programme 2024
(listed in alphabetical order of the country where they are located)

1. Archaeological Site of Muret e Portës, Durrës, ALBANIA
2. Amberd Historical and Cultural Reserve, ARMENIA
3. Palais du Midi, Brussels, BELGIUM
4. Working-class Housing (courées) in Roubaix-Tourcoing, FRANCE
5. Cycladic Islands, notably Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros, GREECE
6. Church of San Pietro in Gessate, Milan, ITALY
7. Synagogue of Siena, ITALY
8. Palace in Sztynort, northern Masuria, POLAND
9. Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac, SERBIA
10. Greek Orthodox Church of St. Georgios, Altınözü / Hatay province, TÜRKIYE
11. Iron Gate of Antioch, Antakya / Hatay province, TÜRKIYE

The endangered heritage sites were shortlisted by an international advisory panel, comprising experts in history, archaeology, architecture, conservation, project analysis and finance.

The Executive President of Europa Nostra, Prof. Dr. Hermann Parzinger, stated: “The selected heritage sites are threatened by demolition, unsuitable development, the devastating impact of natural disasters, neglect or lack of funding. By publishing this shortlist, we wish to convey a strong message of solidarity and support to the activists and local communities who are deeply committed to saving these sites. Europe’s heritage must be preserved not only as a testimony of our shared past, but also as a catalyst for a sustainable, cohesive and peaceful future.”

The final list of 7 Most Endangered heritage sites in Europe for 2024 will be unveiled in April.