Cultural heritage bought by foreign investors
12.3.2015
Question for written answer E-004082-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Marie-Christine Arnautu (NI) , Bruno Gollnisch (NI) , Jean-Marie Le Pen (NI)
The draft opinion of the Committee on Transport and Tourism on the subject ‘Towards an integrated approach to European cultural heritage’ explains that ‘the priorities of the cultural tourism sector must be based on the diversity, authenticity and durability of Europe’.
In France, more than thirty or so castles have been bought up by Chinese investors.
Qatar currently owns 35 000 m2 on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées as well as numerous other pieces of European heritage.
In Greece, 175 000 m2 of land on the natural site of Simos are going to be sold to foreign investors who intend to build campsites and hotels.
Several French castles have been destroyed and rebuilt abroad, such as Beausemblant castle in the Drôme.
How does the Commission intend ‘to preserve the authenticity and diversity of local cultures’ whilst at the same time leaving European cultural heritage in the hands of foreign investors who threaten their authenticity, and even their existence?