The fire on April 15, 2019, at Notre-Dame Cathedral held the world in suspense. One of the most beautiful and famous monuments on the planet seemed destined to disappear. Fortunately, this was not the case.
The restoration worksite became one of the largest in Paris, employing an average of 1,000 people, day and night. But Notre-Dame is just one of the many wonders that have faced the risk of extinction.
Among the UNESCO World Heritage sites that are in danger, there are others as well. This is why the United Nations agency that works to foster global peace and development through education, science, culture and communication has compiled a list of sites that might cease to exist. The goal is to raise public awareness about the threats they face and to encourage protective actions.
Before a site is added to this list, its conditions are carefully evaluated, and a conservation plan is proposed in collaboration with local authorities. The latest update, from July 2024, includes 56 sites: 15 natural and 41 cultural.
Among the most important monuments and natural areas at risk of extinction if not properly preserved are the ancient city of Aleppo, the Everglades National Park, the historic center of Vienna, and the old city of Jerusalem.
