Europa Nostra and EIB Institute announce Europe’s 7 Most Endangered Heritage Sites 2024

The list of the 7 Most Endangered monuments and heritage sites in Europe for 2024 was announced today by Europa Nostra, the European Voice of Civil Society Committed to Cultural and Natural Heritage, and the European Investment Bank (EIB) Institute.

These are the 7 Most Endangered heritage sites in Europe for 2024:

Working-class Housing (courées) in Roubaix-Tourcoing, FRANCE

In the 19th century, the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing formed, together with the nearby city of Lille, the vibrant heart of France’s textile industry. These towns housed workers in a unique form of subsistence housing known as courées. Despite the poor living conditions, this architectural form persisted well into the 20th century. Only a handful remain, still inhabited and, to some extent, in good condition. However, the current municipal stance, favouring demolition within a new urban renovation plan, poses a significant threat.

Nominated by the Association Métropole Label.le.

Cycladic Islands, notably Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros, GREECE

Spreading across the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades archipelago comprises around 220 islands. The mountainous and rugged terrain of the islands contributes to their distinctive character. Another notable element of the Cycladic landscape is the presence of agricultural lands hosting small rural houses, windmills and farms. The Cyclades, in particular the smaller islands, are at risk of losing their authentic character as increasing tourist-oriented construction threatens to overshadow their inherent allure.

Nominated by Elliniki Etairia – Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage with the support of the mayors of three especially affected islands: Serifos, Sifnos and Folegandros.

Church of San Pietro in Gessate, Milan, ITALY

Situated in the heart of Milan, the Church of San Pietro was completed in the 15th century. The fresco cycles decorating the side chapels, made by Lombard painters and other renowned European artists, enrich the site with an important historical and artistic value. Although the roofs were repaired about 20 years ago, the site is rapidly deteriorating, with the consequent loss of portions of the 15th-century paintings. There is a lack of resources for the demanding works needed for its safeguard.

Nominated by an individual member of Europa Nostra from Italy with the support of the Pastoral Community “Holy Prophets” and the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the city of Milan.

Synagogue of Siena, ITALY

The Synagogue of Siena is one of the few examples in Europe of a pre-19th century synagogue that has not been destroyed and is still in use by the local community. Built in 1786 by the architect Giuseppe del Rosso, it showcases a blend of Rococo and Neoclassical elements. The building attracts thousands of tourists each year. The earthquake in February 2023 caused structural damage to the vault of the Synagogue of Siena. The restoration project of the synagogue got approval from the supervisory bodies but seeks further funding.

Nominated by an individual member of Europa Nostra from France with the Jewish Community of Florence and the World Monuments Fund Spain.

Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac, SERBIA

The Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army in Šabac was built in 1962, serving as a vibrant cultural and social hub. A survey underscored strong community interest in preserving this Modernist building. Urgent action is needed to convince city authorities to restore the building, preserving its historical and cultural significance. Without prompt restoration the roof terrace could be damaged due to exposure to weather conditions.

Nominated by Save the Home of the Yugoslav People’s Army.

Greek Orthodox Church of St. Georgios, Altınözü / Hatay province, TÜRKIYE

Located in the Sarılar neighbourhood of Altınözü, the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Georgios has served as a gathering point and cultural centre for over a thousand years. The church’s Byzantine architecture is evident through the use of large cut stones and small stone keystones, traits attributed to the Crusader period. The devastating earthquake of 6 February 2023 has led to the collapse of parts of the building. Without corrective measures, further damage to the church’s roof and dome could increase the risk of the entire building collapsing.
Nominated by the Sarılar Neighbourhood Association and Europa Nostra Türkiye with the support of the Hatay Branch of Human Rights Associations.

Iron Gate of Antioch, Antakya / Hatay province, TÜRKIYE

The Iron Gate of Antioch holds significant heritage value. Believed to be located close to where St. Peter gathered the first Christian community, this 18-metre-high stone structure is the only surviving gate of the originally five in the Antioch region. The damage to the gate due to the devastating earthquake of 6 February 2023 can be clearly observed. Even though there is no immediate risk of collapse and total loss of the monument, urgent action is needed to support and protect the structure from the effects of further deterioration.

Nominated by Europa Nostra Türkiye with the support of İskender Azaroğlu.