The medieval castle town of Monemvasia, one of Greece’s most iconic and historically significant fortresses, has been included on the list of the “7 Most Endangered Monuments in Europe” for 2025, as announced by the 7 Most Endangered program—an initiative by Europa Nostra in collaboration with the European Investment Bank Institute (EIBI).
The nomination was submitted by the Hellenic Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage (ELLET), primarily in response to the proposed construction of a cable car by the Municipality of Monemvasia and the Ministry of Culture. According to ELLET and several cultural and scientific organizations, the project poses a serious threat to the architectural, cultural, and environmental integrity of this unique historic site.
A Landmark at Risk
The Upper Town of Monemvasia, home to landmarks such as the 12th-century Church of Agia Sophia and a network of cobblestone paths, is a vital part of the castle’s identity and the region’s collective memory. “The construction of a cable car risks causing irreversible damage to the landscape and undermining the authenticity of the visitor experience,” warns Manolis Makaras, head of the regional political group Peloponnese First.
A Proposed Alternative
In place of the cable car, ELLET proposes the installation of an elevator system—a solution that could meet accessibility needs without compromising the historic and aesthetic character of the site.
The issue has sparked strong national and international reactions, with public statements from ICOMOS, the Association of Greek Archaeologists, Monumenta, and many other heritage organizations. Monemvasia’s inclusion on the endangered list has sent a clear signal internationally, highlighting the need for protection and the possible reassessment of the proposed development.
A Call for Transparency and Dialogue
According to Makaras, during a debate initiated by his group in the Peloponnese Regional Council, it was revealed that the regional government has neither received nor requested the technical plans for the cable car from the Municipality of Monemvasia or the Ministry of Culture. This lack of communication underscores the urgent need for transparency and a clear stance from the regional authorities.
The group is now calling on the Regional Government of the Peloponnese to take immediate action by:
Requesting, receiving, and publicly releasing all technical plans and studies related to the cable car project, to be formally presented to the Regional Council.
Asking the Ministry of Culture for a detailed update on any approvals or pending authorizations.
Organizing an open consultation with the Ministry of Culture, the Municipality of Monemvasia, scientific and cultural organizations, and the local community to discuss the cable car project and broader strategies for protecting Monemvasia.
