Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001122/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Loucas Fourlas (PPE)
According to information and photographic material that has come to my attention, the Hermitage of St. Peter in the Municipality of Prizren, which is part of the religious heritage of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo, has been severely damaged. Despite having been declared a protected area, including by the Pristina authorities, a private company has begun excavation works for the construction of a road and this is affecting the foundations of the temple and the hermitage. The site has also suffered vandalism and other deterioration over time.
Given that the preservation of cultural and religious heritage in Kosovo is important for stability and reconciliation in the region, can the Commission answer the following:
- 1.Is it aware of the damage in question and the activities taking place at the Hermitage of St. Peter?
- 2.In the context of EU policy on the protection of cultural and religious heritage, what measures does the Commission intend to take to ensure the restoration and protection of the site?
- 3.Bearing in mind that the protection of cultural and religious heritage is a prerequisite for Kosovo’s accession to the EU, does the Commission intend to raise this issue in talks with the Pristina authorities?
Submitted: 17.3.2025