Lauge Risom Koch 
Russian occupation authorities in Crimea have reportedly removed protections from part of a medieval archaeological site to allow construction of a luxury resort linked to Vladimir Putin’s allies.
Russian-backed authorities in occupied Crimea have reportedly reduced protections around a medieval archaeological site to make way for a luxury hotel complex linked to allies of Vladimir Putin.
The development has raised fresh concerns over cultural heritage destruction in territories occupied by Russia.
Protected site reduced
According to United24Media, citing reporting from The Insider, occupation authorities in Sevastopol removed part of the protected status surrounding the Northern Settlement of the Chembalo Fortress in Balaklava.
The medieval site dates from the 13th to 18th centuries and lies near a historic Genoese fortress overlooking Balaklava Bay.
The land is reportedly being cleared to support construction of a luxury hotel complex linked to Russian billionaires Boris and Arkady Rotenberg, longtime associates of Putin.
The project is being developed by Port Lamos, a company connected to the Rotenberg brothers.
Archaeological finds
The Insider reported that archaeologists excavated parts of the site before authorities approved construction work.
During digs carried out in March and April, specialists reportedly uncovered more than 2,000 ceramic fragments dating from the 14th to 18th centuries.
The discoveries included Byzantine, Ottoman, Italian and local artifacts linked to the former Republic of Genoa.
Despite the findings, officials concluded the area had been sufficiently studied and approved its removal from the protected heritage zone.
Luxury development
According to United24Media, Port Lamos is also developing additional hotel projects and acquiring historic buildings around Balaklava Bay.
Properties reportedly targeted include the former Yusupov hunting lodge and other historic mansions intended for conversion into hotels and restaurants.
The Balaklava marina project is among the largest tourism developments launched in Crimea since Russia’s attempted annexation of the peninsula in 2014.
The project aims to create a major tourism hub with accommodation for hundreds of yachts by 2030.
Broader concerns
The construction projects come amid ongoing accusations that Russia is exploiting cultural and historical sites in occupied Ukrainian territory.
United24Media also referenced previous Ukrainian investigations into alleged looting operations involving museums and cultural artifacts transferred from occupied regions to Crimea.
Ukraine and much of the international community continue to recognise Crimea as Ukrainian territory despite Russian control.
Sources: United24Media, The Insider
