3 minute read
YEREVAN, JUNE 13, ARMENPRESS. "Europa Nostra" organization has published the list of 7 most endangered monuments and sites of Europe. ICOMOS/Armenia NGO informed "Armenpress" that St George Armenian Church in Mardin, Turkey (Western Armenia, the Diyarbakir Vilayet, currently administrative centre of the Mardin Vilayet) has also appeared in the list of the 7 most endangered monuments and sites.
The statement of "Europa Nostra" organization runs as follows: "For 15 centuries the Church of St. George was the spiritual home of the large Armenian community in the Turkish city of Mardin. This Grade I registered historical building was founded in 420 AD and was in use until 1915, when the Armenian population left the city. In spite of its outstanding historical and cultural importance, this monument is currently in an advance state of decay.
Europa Nostra Turkey, with the support of the owner, the Mardin Armenian Catholic Church Community Foundation, is strongly committed to rescuing this tangible witness of Turkey's multi-cultural history. The preservation of the church and its annexes would enable the future generations to understand the contribution of Armenian people to Mardin's history and identity and, at the same time, allow a wider public to appreciate their cultural expressions and artistic achievements. The local authorities, who are also aware of the economic advantages from future tourism development, are supportive of restoration projects in their town, but their endeavours need to be encouraged and supported by national and European partners."
Europa Nostra campaigns side by side with our members, organisations and individuals, to oppose threats to cultural heritage objects and sites from all over Europe. Saving endangered heritage, be they monuments, buildings or landscapes, lies at the heart of Europa Nostra mission.
On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, Europa Nostra has launched its new flagship programme: "The 7 Most Endangered", with the European Investment Bank, represented by the EIB Institute, as a founding partner. This programme will identify endangered monuments and sites in Europe and mobilize public and private partners on a local, national and European level to find a sustainable and viable future for those sites.