Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002541/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Diana Riba i Giner (Verts/ALE)
The European Union plays a supportive and complementary role in preserving and promoting Europe’s cultural heritage, as outlined in the European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage[1]. This framework promotes evidence-based decision-making and urges Member States to protect fragile heritage from irreversible damage, including threats resulting from human actions.
The case of the Romanesque murals from the Monastery of Sixena raises serious concerns. Severely damaged by fire during the Spanish Civil War, the murals were rescued and have since been preserved, studied, and permanently exhibited at the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC). Experts warn that their forced relocation, following a court ruling, could cause irreparable harm. MNAC itself has declared the transfer technically unfeasible.
- 1.In the light of the objectives and recommendations set out in the European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage, does the Commission consider that the relocation of the Sixena murals, despite expert warnings, is consistent with the EU’s strategic approach to safeguarding fragile and endangered cultural heritage?
- 2.Given that cultural heritage protection is also an EU responsibility under the Treaties, what tools or mechanisms can the Commission provide to help prevent actions that may lead to the destruction of irreplaceable assets, and will it engage with the competent authorities to ensure their protection?
Submitted: 24.6.2025
- [1] European Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage: https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/5a9c3144-80f1-11e9-9f05-01aa75ed71a1.