Latest news with #WorldHeritageList
First Post
7 hours ago
- First Post
Sierra Leone Joins World Heritage List Firstpost Africa
Sierra Leone Joins World Heritage List | Firstpost Africa | N18G Sierra Leone Joins World Heritage List | Firstpost Africa | N18G Sierra Leone's Tiwai Island, once scarred by civil war, has become the country's first UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to the tireless 25-year efforts of activist Tommy Garnett. This lush forest is a haven for an extraordinary concentration of primates, including endangered chimpanzees, along with rare pygmy hippos and African forest elephants. See More
Axios
13 hours ago
- Politics
- Axios
UNESCO sites in Illinois safe amid U.S. withdrawal
President Trump's decision to withdraw from UNESCO by the end of next year will not affect U.S. participation in one of its key initiatives. The big picture: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization honors natural and cultural sites across the globe that must be preserved due to their significance to history and humanity. It has identified more than 1,200 sites for the World Heritage List, including three in Illinois. Driving the news: The Trump administration announced last week that the U.S. was pulling out of the organization because it "supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November," White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement. Flashback: Trump also pulled the U.S. out of UNESCO in 2017, citing anti-Israel bias, but President Biden had the country rejoin in 2023. State of play: The U.S. will no longer pay dues. UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay said the organization had financially prepared for the U.S. withdrawal. The U.S. remains a member of the World Heritage Convention, and it will continue to preserve and promote the 26 U.S. sites included on the list, an UNESCO spokesperson told Axios. "Even during previous UNESCO withdrawals in 1984 and 2017, the United States continued to nominate and support World Heritage inscriptions," Barbara Gordon of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy told Axios. Eight U.S. Wright properties are included on the World Heritage List. Yes, but: "While UNESCO does not provide direct funding to the sites that comprise 'The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright,' several U.S. agencies that do support public Wright sites have experienced severe cuts," Gordon said. She added, "These funding reductions pose a serious risk to the continued stewardship, preservation, and interpretation of Wright's architectural legacy." Zoom in: Illinois sites include one near St. Louis and two in the Chicago area.
Jordan News
a day ago
- Jordan News
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday - Jordan News
اضافة اعلان Do you want a different vacation, a journey that goes beyond shopping and relaxation, and takes you to the depths of history, during which you can live moments of true magic? UNESCO recently unveiled the addition of a new collection of unique cultural sites to its World Heritage List, priceless places that store stories of glory, legends, and civilizations that continue to fascinate the world. From the banks of the Seine River in France to the mysterious forests of Jamaica, from the industrial landmarks of Germany to the legendary temples of Cambodia, here are five magical sites that are worth your next trip, because they are unforgettable human experiences, beyond being ordinary tourist destinations. The palaces of King Ludwig II in Bavaria. Germany: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday If you think German architecture is dry and rigid, the palaces of King Ludwig II will completely change your outlook. The most famous of these is the Neuschwanstein Palace, which resembles fairy tale palaces. Built in the 19th century, the palace reflects the king's lavish taste and love of mythology and opera. The three palaces built by the king: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Hernkemsee, are now World Heritage sites. These palaces are a mixture of history, art, and royal drama, all set amidst stunning Bavarian landscapes, adding to the charm of the experience, and these magnificent buildings attract millions of people, so if you are an architecture lover interested in history and romantics, you are sure to spend a wonderful holiday in Bavaria in these three fictional palaces. The sites of the Minoan civilization in Crete. Greece: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Who would have imagined that the myth of the labyrinth and the monster "Minotaur" had real roots? At the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, traces of the oldest advanced civilization in Europe (Minoan or Minoan) can be seen. Five other archaeological sites, such as Zagros and Malia, received global recognition from UNESCO this year. The maze is worth a visit because it tells the story of a thriving civilization thousands of years ago, master's in architecture and art, and had commercial contact with the cultures of the Mediterranean basin. Minoan art and culture are characterized by a clear love of nature, movement, and bright colors, which is clearly evident in the murals, pottery, and sculptures they are left behind. If you are a fan of murals that tell scenes from everyday life, religious rituals, and landscapes, and you are a fan of a sophisticated artistic sense, you will have an enjoyable journey with the heritage of the Minoan civilization. The huge stones of Karnak. France: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Carnac stones in Brittany are among the largest stone formations in Europe. More than 3,000 carved rocks, meticulously placed in place some 5,000 years ago. So why is it worth a visit? It offers a glimpse into a mysterious and well-organized civilization, showing how ancient humans understood nature, stars and terrestrial energy, amidst stunning French rural landscapes. Execution fields. Cambodia: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Not every human heritage is beautiful, some document painful chapters of human history. UNESCO has listed sites linked to the Khmer Rouge genocide, such as Tul Sleng Prison and the Choyeong-eek execution site, as a World Heritage Site as a testament to crimes committed against the Cambodian people during the seventies. Why is this visit worth it? Because remembering tragedies is a human and moral imperative. Visiting these sites reminds us of the importance of peace and the need to preserve human dignity. «Port Royal» Jamaica. A city swallowed by the sea: Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday Port Royal was one of the most corrupt and decaying cities in the world during the 17th century, until an earthquake in 1692 submerged large parts of it under water. Today, what remains of the city, above and below sea level, is part of the UNESCO list. Why is it worth visiting? It gives you a vivid glimpse into early colonial life, piracy, and maritime trade in the Caribbean, all set in a breathtaking tropical setting. Zahrat Al Khaleej - Jordan
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Gulf Today
Wadi Al Helo, Mleiha top priorities for world heritage
Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) is working relentlessly and sparing no effort after the global achievement of Al Faya being included on the Unesco's World Heritage List, said Eisa Yousef, director general of SAA. He revealed future plans to highlight the exceptional value of other sites, most notably Wadi Al Helo in the Eastern Region and Mleiha archaeological site in the Central Region, both of which are on Unesco's tentative list. Yousef explained the success of Al Faya's nomination file with support from 13 of the 21 countries on the World Heritage Committee, which represents international recognition of the authenticity and importance of the site. He pointed out that this achievement brings strategic gains for the UAE and Sharjah since it highlights the region as a pivotal part of human history, encourages the attraction of specialised and sustainable cultural tourism and provides diverse job opportunities such as specialised tour guides. These goals are achieved through close institutional co-operation as embodied in the key role played by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) through the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority through the Jebel Buhais Geology Park and by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority in promoting tourism destinations, he said. Recently, Simona-Mirela Miculescu, President of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco), commended the pioneering role played by the United Arab Emirates in protecting and preserving cultural and natural heritage both nationally and globally. She affirmed that the UAE is a key partner of the Paris-based organisation and a model to be emulated in this field. This praise came during an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) in Paris, where Miculescu expressed her appreciation for the UAE's recent success in inscribing the Faya Palaeolandscape in Sharjah on the Unesco World Heritage List. Miculescu described this achievement as a powerful message reflecting the UAE's deep commitment to preserving shared human memory and recognising the value of heritage sites as bridges for dialogue and understanding between peoples. She emphasised that the UAE's role extends beyond its national borders, stating: 'The UAE not only protects its own national heritage but also takes the initiative to help safeguard global heritage. This reflects its civilisational vision and ethical responsibility toward all humanity.' Miculescu noted that the UAE is among Unesco's principal partners, having provided clear support for major international initiatives, including the rehabilitation of heritage sites damaged by conflict, particularly in the Arab region. Regarding the exceptional value of the Faya archaeological site, Miculescu explained: 'Faya is not merely an archaeological site. It stands as evidence of early stages in human development and illustrates human interaction with the natural environment in an area of exceptional geological and cultural significance.' She highlighted that what makes the site distinctive is its direct connection to the first human migrations from Africa to Asia — a critical phase in human history that continues to be the subject of intense academic study. The documented discoveries at the site, she added, offer rich material for researchers and anthropologists. The Unesco official praised the efforts that led to this international recognition, saying: 'Its inscription on the World Heritage List is a highly significant step, made possible by meticulous scientific work and long-term efforts by the UAE in collaboration with international experts, all in accordance with Unesco's rigorous standards. The UAE's nomination file was comprehensive and compelling, and we highly value this level of professionalism.' She also applauded the UAE's approach to integrating heritage preservation with sustainable development plans, emphasising that the country sets an example of how heritage sites can serve as a foundation for both cultural and economic development. This is achieved through investment in sustainable tourism and by involving local communities in the management and protection of these sites. She described the UAE's experience as a model for other countries in the region and around the world.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
UAE: Sharjah eyes UNESCO recognition for two more heritage sites after Jebel Faya inscription
The emirate prepares to nominate Wadi Al Helo and Mleiha for global recognition/ Image: WAM TL;DR Sharjah's Mleiha and Wadi Al Helo sites are next in line for UNESCO recognition. Jebel Faya 's inscription boosted Sharjah's cultural tourism and scientific status. Ongoing efforts involve local authorities and strict conservation plans to protect heritage. Sharjah recently celebrated a major milestone when the Jebel Faya archaeological site earned its place on UNESCO's World Heritage List. This achievement brought international recognition to the emirate as a key site in human history. But the work doesn't stop there. The Sharjah Antiquities Authority is now focused on securing UNESCO status for two other significant locations: Wadi Al Helo in the Eastern Region and the Mleiha Archaeological Site in the Central Region. Both sites are already on UNESCO's Tentative List, marking the first step toward full recognition. Issa Yousif, Director-General of the Sharjah Antiquities Authority, shared these plans in an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM). He emphasized that the Jebel Faya nomination received strong support from 13 out of 21 World Heritage Committee countries, reflecting the site's global scientific and cultural importance. This success not only elevates Sharjah's profile internationally but also opens new doors for cultural tourism and job creation in the area. What Makes These Sites Important? Jebel Faya: Known as the earliest desert site settled by humans around 200,000 years ago, it has a rich history uncovered since 2003 by German-led archaeological missions. The site's geology includes rare ophiolite rocks, pieces of the Earth's mantle exposed on the surface, making it a world-class site for scientific study. Mleiha Archaeological Site: Located in central Sharjah, Mleiha has significant archaeological remains from various historical periods. It's a cultural hub that offers educational tours and promotes heritage awareness. Wadi Al Helo: Situated in the eastern part of Sharjah, this site holds ancient settlements and artifacts that add depth to the region's prehistoric narrative. How Is Sharjah Protecting These Treasures? Conservation is a key part of UNESCO's requirements, and Sharjah is taking this seriously. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like How Smart Are You Really? This Test Will Surprise You Try Now Undo Kholoud Al-Houli Al-Suwaidi, Director of Tangible Cultural Heritage at the Antiquities Authority, told WAM, a local media outlet, that the management plan for Jebel Faya was fully ready before its nomination. The site is open for visitors with guided tours from the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. To protect the environment, vehicle routes change every two weeks to reduce the impact on the area. Annual conservation reports and five-year monitoring plans are submitted to UNESCO to ensure these sites remain protected for future generations. This approach combines decades of research with hands-on care. Collaboration Is Key The success of Sharjah's heritage projects depends on cooperation between several local bodies: Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), which manages the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Environment and Protected Areas Authority, which oversees Jebel Buhais Geological Park. Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, which promotes cultural tourism. Legal and Planning Departments, which enforce protection laws and zoning regulations. According to WAM, both officials stressed that this achievement is safeguarded by an integrated legal framework issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who provided unlimited support for the project. The Legal Department and the Department of Planning and Survey further backed the accomplishment by issuing development regulations for the protected zone. Including, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi who provided essential support and guidance throughout the process. Four Sharjah Sites Listed on UNESCO Tentative List in 2023 In 2023, Sharjah added four new sites to UNESCO's Tentative List, highlighting the deep history of the Emirates and its role in human settlement over thousands of years. These sites are: Pre-Islamic Mleiha, located in Central Sharjah Four locations with significant rock art Wadi Al Helo, known for its ancient copper mining evidence Faya Area in Central Sharjah The sites were added in February 2023 after thorough studies by academic experts and specialists. Out of these, the Faya site gained official inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025 Why It Matters Sharjah's efforts highlight the region's rich prehistoric past and its role in early human migration. These sites help us understand human history and promote cultural tourism in a way that respects the environment and local communities. For residents and visitors, it means access to world-class heritage sites that are both educational and inspiring.
