During the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, which convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from September 10 to 25, some significant additions were made to UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List. A total of 42 new sites received this coveted recognition, and among them, there is one particularly noteworthy inclusion: a site located in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. This decision by the committee underscores the importance of preserving and acknowledging cultural and natural treasures from diverse regions around the world.
These are the new additions:
The Cultural Landscape of Old Tea Forests of the Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er, China, is a breathtaking region steeped in tea tradition. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases centuries-old tea cultivation practices and the unique ecology of the Jingmai Mountain area.
Mongolia’s Deer Stone Monuments and Related Bronze Age Sites are a remarkable testament to the region’s ancient history. These stone structures, adorned with intricate carvings, offer insights into the beliefs and rituals of Mongolia’s Bronze Age people.
Gaya Tumuli in South Korea is a collection of ancient burial mounds dating back to the 4th-5th centuries. These tumuli provide valuable archaeological and historical information about the Gaya Confederacy, a significant Korean kingdom of its time.
Gordion in Turkey holds historical significance as the capital of Phrygia and the legendary home of King Midas. Its archaeological site reveals a rich tapestry of ancient history, including the famous “Gordion Knot.”
The Jewish-Medieval Heritage of Erfurt, Germany, is a captivating glimpse into the city’s Jewish history. Erfurt’s medieval synagogue and mikveh showcase the cultural heritage of the Jewish community that thrived in this city.
Koh Ker in Cambodia is an archaeological marvel, known for its ancient temples and sculptures. This site offers a unique perspective on the Khmer Empire’s architectural and artistic achievements.
Modernist Kaunas, Lithuania, is a treasure trove of modernist architecture and urban planning from the interwar period. The cityscape showcases innovative design and cultural heritage.
National Archaeological Park Tak’alik Ab’aj in Guatemala preserves the ruins of a significant pre-Columbian Maya city. The site is a window into the ancient Maya civilization and its achievements.
The Old Town of Kuldiga in Latvia is a well-preserved medieval town with charming architecture and historic significance. Its cobblestone streets and picturesque landscapes make it a cultural gem.
The Prehistoric Sites of Talayotic Menorca in Spain consist of ancient stone structures and settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. They provide a glimpse into the island’s early history and culture.
Santiniketan in India is known for its association with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It’s a center of art and culture, housing Visva-Bharati University and Tagore’s former residence.
The Silk Roads: Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor in Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan is part of the historic Silk Road network. This corridor facilitated trade and cultural exchange for centuries.
The Gedeo Cultural Landscape in Ethiopia is characterized by terraced fields and traditional land management practices. It reflects the close relationship between the Gedeo people and their environment.
The Persian Caravanserai in Iran showcases the architectural marvels that once served as rest stops for travelers along ancient trade routes. These caravanserais offer a glimpse into the region’s historical significance.
Tr’ondek-Klondike in Canada is a testament to the Klondike Gold Rush’s impact on the region’s history and culture. The site preserves the legacy of this historic event.
Viking-Age Ring Fortresses in Denmark are archaeological sites with circular fortifications, shedding light on the Viking era and their defence strategies.
Zatec and the Landscape of Saaz Hops in Czechia are known for hop cultivation, which contributes to the brewing of the world-famous Pilsner beer. The landscape and tradition are integral to Czech beer culture.
The Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua in Congo is a vast, pristine wilderness area rich in biodiversity. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna and offers opportunities for eco-tourism and conservation.
The Volcanoes and Forests of Mount Pelee and the Pitons of Northern Martinique in France are natural wonders that encompass volcanic landscapes and lush forests, providing a unique mix of geological and ecological features.
Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan in the West Bank holds archaeological evidence of one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, dating back thousands of years.
The Astronomical Observatories of Kazan Federal University in Russia showcase advancements in astronomy and scientific research.
“Koç Yolu” Transhumance Route in Azerbaijan offer insights into the traditional lifestyle and migration practices of the Khinalig people.
Djerba, Tunisia, is a historic island known for its cultural diversity and historic landmarks, including ancient synagogues and mosques.
The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas in India encompass intricately carved temples that reflect the architectural and artistic achievements of the Hoysala dynasty.
Yogyakarta and its Historic Landmarks in Indonesia are known for their rich cultural heritage, including the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton) and the ancient temples of Prambanan and Borobudur.
The Maison Carrée of Nîmes in France is a remarkably preserved Roman temple and architectural masterpiece.
Bale Mountains National Park in Ethiopia boasts diverse ecosystems, including Afro-alpine moorlands and unique wildlife.
The ESMA Museum and Site of Memory in Argentina preserves the memory of a former clandestine centre of detention and torture during the country’s dark period of dictatorship.
The Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker, Netherlands, is a historic planetarium that provides insights into early astronomy.
Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in the U.S. are ancient earthwork structures built by the Hopewell culture, showcasing their complex ceremonial and artistic practices.
The Jodensavanne Archaeological Site in Suriname includes the Jodensavanne Settlement and Cassipora Creek Cemetery, offering a glimpse into the history of Jewish settlers in the region.
The Ancient Town of Si Thep in Thailand features archaeological remnants of an ancient town that flourished during the Khmer Empire.
The Wooden Hypostyle Mosques of Medieval Anatolia in Turkey are architectural wonders known for their wooden columns and intricate design.
Zagori Cultural Landscape in Greece is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, traditional villages, and stone bridges.
Anticosti in Canada is a large island known for its rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty.
The Evaporitic Karst and Caves of Northern Apennines in Italy are characterized by unique geological features and underground cave systems.
Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda is a biodiverse haven known for its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife.
The Cold Winter Deserts of Turan in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan are expansive desert landscapes that endure harsh winters.
Uruq Bani Ma’arid in Saudi Arabia features stunning desert landscapes and ancient archaeological sites.
The Tugay Forests of the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve in Tajikistan are critical ecosystems along riverbanks, contributing to biodiversity conservation.
Rwanda Memorial Sites commemorate the tragic events of the Rwandan Genocide, serving as places of remembrance and reflection.
Funerary Sites of the First World War in Belgium and France are solemn reminders of the sacrifices made during World War I, with numerous military cemeteries and memorials dotting the landscape.
