World Heritage Day - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is celebrated on April 18th every year. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting cultural heritage sites around the world.
- 2. The day was established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and was later approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
- 3. The main objective of World Heritage Day is to promote cultural diversity, heritage conservation, and sustainable development. It also highlights the significance of historical sites in enhancing tourism and economic growth.
- 4. There are currently over 1,100 UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in 167 countries. These sites are selected based on their cultural, historical, scientific, or natural significance and are considered to be of outstanding universal value.
- 5. Some of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal in India, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Pyramids of Egypt, and the Acropolis in Greece.
- 6. UNESCO provides financial and technical assistance to help countries preserve and protect their World Heritage Sites. It also works with local communities, governments, and other organizations to promote sustainable tourism and responsible management of these sites.
- 7. World Heritage Day is celebrated with various events and activities such as guided tours, exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances. These activities help raise awareness about the importance of heritage conservation and encourage people to visit and learn more about these sites.
- 8. The theme for World Heritage Day changes every year to focus on different aspects of cultural heritage preservation. Previous themes have included sustainable tourism, heritage and community engagement, and the role of indigenous peoples in heritage conservation.
- 9. In addition to physical heritage sites, World Heritage Day also recognizes intangible cultural heritage such as traditional rituals, music, dance, and craftsmanship. These elements are considered important for preserving cultural identity and promoting intercultural dialogue.
- 10. As individuals, we can contribute to the preservation of heritage sites by respecting local customs and traditions, practicing sustainable tourism, and supporting initiatives that promote heritage conservation. By working together, we can ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from these valuable cultural treasures.