This Disgusts Me

One of the great archaeological sites in the world, the Pompeii ruins in Italy, is facing an uncertain future.

I visited there back in 2007.

The degradation involves fading and damaged frescos and mosaics, which line the floors and walls of the various houses, decaying buildings that in some cases are falling apart and vandalism. Some of the most-at-risk areas have now been closed off to the general public. What is necessary to improve conservation at the site is a matter of debate, but better maintenance, security and restoration work are frequently raised as key issues.

The seriousness of the situation prompted the United Nations Environmental, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the European Union (EU) to step in last November to help save Pompeii. The EU pledged €105 million, as part of a $1 billion package for heritage sites across southern Italy. But the money, even if finally given in full, will not meet the estimated cost of preserving the site.

It disgusts me people would take "souvenirs" from the site.

Of course the privatizers want to get hold of the site and destroy it for private gain.