The UN cultural organization (UNESCO) has decided not to add Venice and its lagoon to the list of endangered world heritage sites, contrary to what was initially suggested. The responsible UNESCO committee decided this yesterday at its current meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Portal/Manuel Silvestri
However, the commission reiterated its concerns about the adequate conservation of the northern Italian lagoon city, which was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 1987. More progress needs to be made in light of the threats posed by mass tourism and climate change.
Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano described UNESCO’s decision in a statement as a “great victory for Italy and for common sense.” The city of Venice has taken bold steps to control tourism and ensure the protection of the world’s cultural heritage. On Tuesday, the City Council decided to charge a fee of five euros to tourists who do not stay overnight in Venice.