Save World Heritage sites

The team of the National Conservation Area “St. Sophia of Kyiv” has observed with concern the large number of fires that occurred in August 2021 in Greece and other countries in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean. We express our sympathy to the residents of the areas affected by the fire, as well as our deep respect for the firefighters who are saving lives and historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site “Archaeological Site Olympia”.

Every year, more and more unique cultural heritage sites are threatened by climate change. During the 44^th extended session (Fuzhou/online, 16–31 July 2021), the UNESCO World Heritage Committee reviewed fire impacts on World Heritage properties and called on States parties to integrate climate change mitigation and adaptation measures in risk preparedness policy and action plans in order to protect the outstanding universal value of all World Heritage properties.

It will be recalled that on September 16, 2020, the BioDry system was installed in St. Sophia Cathedral and related monastery buildings to naturally restore the proper level of moisture in the foundation and walls. This equipment helps to eliminate the problem of excessive moisture and restores the microclimate.

The ruins of the Olympic Stadium. “Archaeological site of Olympia”, Greece

 

Nataliia Tymoshenko

International Cooperation Sector