Rising Sea Levels Threaten Aegean Historic Sites in Türkiye and Greece

A new study has revealed that rising sea levels are putting hundreds of historic sites in the Aegean region at risk, with many facing the possibility of being submerged by the end of this century. The research, conducted by geoscientist Enes Zengin from Dumlupınar University, highlights the urgent need to protect these cultural treasures before it’s too late.

Source: Euronews Culture/YouTube

The study focused on 464 historical sites along the coastlines of Türkiye and Greece, areas rich in archaeological significance. Using data from the 2022 Sea Level Rise Technical Report by the US National Ocean Service, Zengin developed inundation risk maps for various sea level rise scenarios. The findings are alarming: over a third of these sites could be at risk, with 147 locations identified as vulnerable over the next 50 years.

Among the sites at greatest risk are the ancient cities of Knidos, Kaunos, and Elaia in Türkiye, as well as Sissi, Pavlopetri, and Lokris in Greece. These locations, which include archaeological sites, castles, and ancient port cities, are all vital pieces of human history. The island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Mykonos, is already experiencing structural damage due to increased flooding, highlighting the real and present danger of Climate change.

Zengin’s research classified the sites into different risk levels, with 34 sites at ‘very high’ risk and 19 at ‘high’ risk. Even in the best-case scenario, where sea levels rise by only one meter, these historic landmarks could face partial or complete submersion. The potential for greater devastation exists if sea levels rise by three meters or more, threatening additional sites like Ephesus Harbor and the ancient cities of Olympos and Patara.

Despite the dire warnings, the study also brought some hope: 317 sites are predicted to remain safe from inundation, even in the worst-case scenario. However, Zengin stresses the need for immediate action to protect those at risk, urging for the prioritization of protective measures to safeguard these invaluable cultural heritages.

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