Lagoon City
UNESCO: Venice not on the list of world heritage in danger
36 years ago, Venice was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site, and now the lagoon city was threatened with inclusion on the infamous “Red List” of endangered world heritage sites. But things turn out differently.
The UN cultural organization Unesco has decided not to add Venice and its lagoon to the list of world heritage in danger – contrary to its intention. The responsible UNESCO committee decided this at its current meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
However, the committee reiterated its concerns about the proper conservation of the northern Italian lagoon city, which was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 1987. Further progress must be made with a view to the threats posed by mass tourism and climate change.
Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro was pleased with UNESCO’s decision and emphasized in a statement that efforts had been made to protect the urban area. “The Venetians love their city and believe in its future.”
Italy’s Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano called the decision a “great victory for Italy and common sense.” The city of Venice has taken bold steps to control tourism and ensure the protection of world cultural heritage. On Tuesday, the local council decided to charge a fee of five euros to tourists who only stay for a few hours and do not spend the night.