[Global Times Comprehensive Report] Recently, Italian archaeologists criticized the inadequate protection of cultural relics and historic sites in Sicily. The largest ancient Roman mosaic site covering an area of 3,500 square meters was even abandoned. According to a report on the Italian "livesicilia" website on the 12th, the site was built in the 4th century AD and discovered in the 19th century. About 300,000 people visited it last year. Photos from Italian media showed white stains on the mosaics, bird droppings on the sidewalk and sewage in the fountain. Due to rainwater leakage, the mosaic became uneven and fell off.
![[Global Times Comprehensive Report] Recently, Italian archaeologists have criticized Sicily for poor protection of cultural relics and historic sites. The largest ancient Roman mosaic site covering an area of 3,500 square meters has even been abandoned. According to a report on - Lujuba](https://cdn-dd.lujuba.top/img/loading.gif)
Mosaic ruins in Sicily Source: Foreign media
reported that compared to the mosaics in St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, which have eight staff members maintaining around the clock, the mosaic ruins in Sicily have no one to take care of them. Although the European Union has allocated 3.4 million euros to restore the site, the repair work has not been started, and there are reports that the funds have been misappropriated. Ulla, the official responsible for protecting the site, said the photos were misleading and the mosaics were in good condition. Conservationists say other sites in Sicily are also at risk as local officials prioritize attracting tourists rather than protecting heritage. (Zhen Xiang)
