Cultural heritage risk assessment in a changing rural Landscape: The case study of Northeastern Messenia, Greece

Abstract

This paper discusses the impact of farming and natural phenomena on monuments in a remote rural area of northeastern Messenia, a region known for its fertile and arable soils. Over 40 sites of interest have been uncovered through past excavations and archaeological surveys, with numerous travelers documenting in situ antiquities near contemporary rural villages. This area, located on the northern fridges of the ancient Pylos and Messene sites, holds significant importance. However, because archaeological research has largely focused on these prominent sites, the other monuments and archaeological sites in the region have not received the attention they deserve. As a result, these lesser-known sites are now at risk, threatened by various factors in a dynamic rural environment. The goal of this research project was to highlight the risks facing the archaeological heritage of the region, which is heavily affected by intense agricultural practices and natural phenomena. The project also proposes countermeasures that could serve as a reference for the broader Messenia region, contributing to its protection. The method described in this article utilizes historical and aerial photography with an AHP approach for quantifying the risk assessment on the cultural heritage assets of the region.