Here are the most endangered cultural sites in the world.
There are more than 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which around 830 are cultural. These are landmarks or areas of such great cultural, historical or scientific importance that international treaties have been signed to protect them. However, more than 50 of them are currently endangered and could be irretrievably destroyed if no action is taken, UNESCO's website states.
Here are 8 of the most endangered cultural sites in the world.
The historical center of Shahrisabz, Uzbekistan
Significance: Located on the ancient Silk Road in southern Uzbekistan, this historic centre dates back 2,000 years and served as the cultural and political centre of the Kesh region in the 14th and 15th centuries. Why it is endangered: In 2016, UNESCO added it to the list of World Heritage in Danger due to the development of tourist infrastructure, which foresees the destruction of historical sites and buildings.
The ancient city of Aleppo, Syria
Significance: Aleppo witnessed the rise and fall of several empires and civilizations, including the Hittites, Assyrians, Arabs, Mongols, and Ottomans. Why it's at risk: In 2013, following the escalation of the armed conflict in the country, UNESCO added Aleppo - along with six other Syrian cities - to the list of world heritage sites in danger of destruction.
Medieval monuments in Kosovo
Significance: The four main buildings of the site represent the pinnacle of Byzantine-Romanesque ecclesiastical culture. Why it's at risk: In 2006, UNESCO added these monuments to the list of World Heritage in Danger due to the growing political instability in the region, which makes it difficult to manage and protect the site.
Chan Chan Archaeological Zone, Peru
Significance: As the capital of the Chimor kingdom, Chan Chan, a large brick city in the Moche Valley in present-day Trujillo, reached its heyday in the 15th century and became the largest city in pre-Columbian South America. Why it is endangered: In 1986, UNESCO added Chan Chan to the list of endangered monuments of world culture. Chan Chan is threatened by illegal farming practices, private land claims and resettlement issues, as well as urban and infrastructure overdevelopment.
The Old City of Jerusalem and its walls
Significance: Considered a holy place by all three Abrahamic religions, Jerusalem's cultural significance is immense. For example, the place where the Dome of the Rock is located - an Islamic shrine from the 7th century - is recognized by all three religions as the place of Abraham's sacrifice. Why it's in danger: In 1982, UNESCO added Jerusalem to the List of World Heritage in Danger amid controversy, according to the organization's website. Jerusalem is under threat due to the erosion of religious values, modern urban development plans, and lack of maintenance and responsible governance, among other reasons.
City of Samarra, Iraq
Significance: In the 9th century, this formerly powerful Islamic capital ruled the provinces of the Abbasid Empire, which stretched from Tunisia to Central Asia. Why it's endangered: In 2007, the same year it was declared a cultural heritage, UNESCO added Samara to the List of World Heritage in Danger. According to UNESCO, the main threats to the site stem from a lack of proper management by local authorities.
The historic centre of Vienna, Austria
Significance: The Austrian capital developed from early Celtic and Roman settlements into a medieval and baroque city and became the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, during which it established itself as a leading European musical centre. Why it's at risk: In 2007, UNESCO listed Vienna's historic centre on the World Heritage List in Danger because of a proposed new high-rise development project that could have a negative impact on it.
Abu Mena, Egypt
Significance: The holy city, monastery complex and Christian pilgrimage centre were built on the tomb of the martyr Saint Minas of Alexandria, who died at the end of the 3rd century. Why it is endangered: In 2001, UNESCO added the archaeological site to its list of endangered sites after agricultural activities in the area led to a significant rise in the water table in the soil, causing the ancient structures to collapse. | BGNES
