Abstract
Protecting the urban patrimony is essential in the context of accelarating urbanisation and of enviromental degradation. Cities are not just economical and social centers, but also spaces with a distinct cultural identity, their preservation contributing to mantaining the balance between modernisation and the protection of natural resources. The uncontroled real etate expansion, pollution and the loss of bio diversity affects the functioning of the urban areas, reducing the quality of life and endangering their sustainability. Snagov lake is a relevant example of the human activity impact on an important area of cultural and ecological importance. Although accredited for its biodiversity it is confrunting with severe problems caused by pollution, illegal constructions and uncontrolled tourism. This study analyzes the actual state of the lake, evaluating the efficiency of the protection measures and identifying the sollutions for the improving of the preservation strategies.