ICOMOS Warns of Irreversible Damage to St. Catherine’s Monastery

Just hours before critical discussions regarding the property status of St. Catherine’s Monastery, the Hellenic ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites – official technical advisor to UNESCO) expressed deep concern over the property regime and the potential expropriation of the monastery’s assets as per a recent decision by the Egyptian judiciary. The announcement emphasizes that while UNESCO has requested the Egyptian authorities halt construction work in the area, there appears to be no intention to comply, endangering the preservation of the monastic way of life of the Holy Brotherhood and the sacred character of the monastery. The consequences could lead to the ‘desertion of the monastery’ and ‘the integration of the Arab population within the framework of the Great Transformation.’ Established in the mid-6th century by Emperor Justinian I, the monastery is the oldest continuously operating Orthodox monastery for 15 centuries. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2002, it spans an area of 60,100 hectares and is revered by three religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Despite calls from UNESCO for a halt in construction until detailed studies are conducted, Egyptian authorities show no signs of stopping the work. The situation highlights broader geopolitical and socio-economic shifts in the Eastern Mediterranean, threatening cultural and ecological balances. ICOMOS warns that irreversible consequences will affect the monastery’s worshipful character, leading to its transformation into a mere tourist attraction devoid of substantial religious content. It urges governments, UNESCO, ICOMOS national committees, the UN, and the European Community to take measures to annul the court decision and enhance efforts for proper management of this World Heritage Site. Consideration is also given to listing the monastery on the List of World Heritage in Danger to strengthen its protection.