Whether it’s from urbanisation, unrest, or natural disasters, many incredible places around the world are under threat, according to the World Monuments Fund (WMF).
The organisation has added 25 places to its 2020 World Monuments Watch – a watch-list for places of historical, social, and cultural significance that need to be protected. The new additions include Machu Picchu, which could be under threat from a new airport in Cusco, and Notre Dame, which was greatly damaged in a fire earlier this year. Find out more about the at-risk places here.
Highlighted At-Risk Sites
Here is a selection of some of the new additions to the list:
- Machu Picchu: This iconic site faces challenges due to potential construction of a nearby airport.
- Notre Dame Cathedral: The cathedral has suffered extensive fire damage, prompting urgent restoration efforts.
- Great Wall of China: Portions of this historical monument continue to erode, raising concerns about its preservation.
- Venice, Italy: Rising sea levels and tourist overpopulation threaten the city’s unique heritage.
Moreover, these sites not only represent architectural feats but also hold deep cultural and historical significance for their communities. Therefore, raising awareness about their status is crucial for ongoing preservation efforts.
