Venice will not be added to the list of endangered world heritage sites, the UN agency Unesco has announced. But concerns remain over the "major challenges" facing the Italian tourist magnet.
The announcement came after the World Heritage Committee's annual meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Much work still needs to be done to avoid irreversible damage to Venice.
”"Further progress is required," the committee wrote in a statement, adding that a new review will be conducted next summer.
”The protection of this world heritage must remain a priority for the entire international community.”
UNESCO has long considered classifying Venice as a world heritage site in danger. The reason is rising water levels due to climate change and tourism.
Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano is pleased that Venice is no longer listed as a World Heritage Site in Danger. It is, according to the minister, ”a great victory for Italy and common sense.”.
The Venice government this week agreed to introduce a five-euro fee for day tourists. This is said to have contributed to UNESCO's assessment, a diplomatic source told AFP.
Two years ago, cruise ships were banned from docking in Venice. In addition to contributing to tourism, the giant ships cause damage to both the ecosystem and the city's foundation.
Source:TT-AP-AFP
