Europa Nostra: The Cycladic islands are at risk from overtourism and uncontrolled construction

Excerpt and Photo from greekcitytimes.com

The international organisation Europa Nostra issued a danger signal for the islands of the Cyclades, especially Sifnos, Serifos and Folegandros.

According to a related announcement at the end of last month, the Greek Cyclades Islands entered the preliminary list of 11 of Europa Nostra and their candidacy is supported by ELLET, so they are in the final selection of the seven threatened monuments and cultural heritage sites of Europe.

The purpose is to protect them from over-tourism and uncontrolled construction.

“The Cyclades, renowned for their unique charm and rich culture, find themselves grappling with a myriad of challenges posed by the surge in tourism development and rampant construction. Despite driving economic growth, this brings along a host of environmental, cultural, and social issues, including the degradation of natural resources, damage to cultural and natural heritage, water scarcity, waste management problems, and socio-economic disparities. The islands are at risk of losing their exceptional and authentic character as increasing tourist-oriented construction threatens to overshadow their inherent allure,” a relevant announcement emphasises.