Historical Sites in Ukraine at Risk Due to War, Says UNESCO

UNESCO has raised concerns about the potential destruction of historical sites in Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, and the city of Lviv due to Russia’s ongoing war. Iconic landmarks such as Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, the medieval buildings of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery, and Lviv’s historic center have been included on UNESCO’s List of World Heritage in Danger.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee concluded that these sites are no longer adequately protected and are threatened by potential danger due to the war. The ongoing conflict poses a risk to these cultural treasures, both from direct attacks and the shockwaves caused by bombings. Lviv’s historic old town, founded in the Middle Ages, has retained much of its architectural and cultural heritage.

Saint Sophia Cathedral and Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra are significant historical and religious sites dating back to the 11th century. This addition to the danger list follows the inclusion of the Ukrainian port city of Odesa in January.