The Court of Auditors, in its review of “the management framework and the funding status of UNESCO World Heritage Monuments in Greece,” points out that “no Greek natural monument has been added to the World Heritage List up until today, despite the presence of distinctive environmental treasures in our country.”
According to the Court of Auditors, “the review aims to identify weaknesses and gaps in the management system of Greece’s Cultural Heritage Monuments in order to contribute to the more effective organization and operation of the system for the proper utilization of the country’s cultural heritage.”
In detail, the Court of Auditors made eight findings, which are as follows:
- The application of UNESCO’s scientific standards is essential for maintaining the Outstanding Universal Value of monuments. Extending these standards to other cultural sites would be beneficial.
- No Greek natural monument has been added to the World Heritage List, despite the presence of unique environmental treasures in Greece.
- Only three out of the nineteen Greek Cultural Heritage Monuments have an approved Management Plan, which hinders their effective protection and management.
- The absence of a central body responsible for overseeing, planning, financing, and executing projects and infrastructure creates overlaps in responsibilities.
- Many organizations (Regions, Municipalities) prepare nomination files for adding monuments to the cultural heritage list without first informing the Ministry of Culture.
- To ensure the conservation, promotion, and visibility of monuments, it is absolutely necessary to verify the correct allocation of revenues from archaeological sites in Greece.
- The lack of documented procedures and monitoring mechanisms negatively impacts the functioning of the responsible services.
- Recognizing a monument as a World Heritage site brings significant socio-economic benefits, which should be utilized by the authorities.