Discover the transformative impact of the 7 Most Endangered programme, a collaborative initiative between Europa Nostra and the European Investment Bank Institute, in preserving and revitalising Europe’s cultural heritage. Over the past decade, this programme has successfully identified and supported 56 endangered monuments and sites across 31 European countries. The selection process involves a comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment by heritage and technical experts, considering the potential for sustainable socio-economic development.
The programme’s cohesive power has been instrumental in connecting European people and communities, contributing to economic growth, and enhancing resilience to climate change. It has demonstrated the economic rationale of investing in cultural heritage, highlighting its role in urban renewal, rural development, and as a catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development. The document showcases the positive outcomes of the programme, with 20% of projects successfully completed, 50% making good or medium progress, and only 3 projects considered failures.
Furthermore, the programme provides crucial financial support, technical assistance, and expertise to restore and preserve the selected sites. It emphasises the importance of private stakeholder support and the potential for European funding to safeguard these cultural treasures. The success stories, such as the Buzludzha Monument in Bulgaria and the Belgrade Fortress in Serbia, underscore the programme’s significant impact in saving and revitalising Europe’s cultural heritage.
This document was produced on the 10th Anniversary of the 7 Most Endangered programme by the EIB Institute in collaboration with Europa Nostra, celebrating the programme’s achievements and its pivotal role in preserving and renewing Europe’s cultural heritage. It highlights the collaborative efforts of professionals and volunteers, demonstrating the transformative power of the 7 Most Endangered programme in safeguarding Europe’s rich cultural legacy.
