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Discover the rich tapestry of cultures and histories preserved in over 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage sites worldwide.
Unlock the meaning of World Heritage as designated by UNESCO.
World Heritage sites are exceptional places chosen by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, and scientific significance. From lush forests to towering monuments, these sites represent the diverse beauty of our planet.
Besides, World Heritage sites must have a significant impact on human welfare. Among the accolades bestowed by UNESCO, World Heritage status is the most prestigious and revered. This is why many nations take pride in possessing UNESCO-recognized World Heritage sites.
Explore the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage sites (Part I).
Each year, UNESCO members come together to assess and select locations to add to the World Heritage list. From major cities in Europe to the Trans-Iranian Railway, mining landscapes, and more, careful consideration is given to each.
Here is a list of recently added UNESCO-recognized World Heritage sites in recent years.
Aslantepe Mound (Turkey)
Aslantepe Mound is an archaeological mound with a history dating back approximately 8,000 years. It is one of the earliest religious sites in Turkey. The ancient mound is located in the city of Malatya, in eastern Turkey. Malatya holds significant importance in the world's historical and cultural heritage. Here, you can discover the world's first palace and ancient ruins of a civilized state.
The ancient mound of Aslantepe has been formed over 8,000 years ago (Image Source: Collection)
Nice City (France)
There's no need to introduce Nice extensively due to its famous status as a tourist destination. However, you might wonder why UNESCO chose Nice despite France owning many equally beautiful cities.
The classical European charm of Nice City (Image Source: Collection)
According to UNESCO, Nice is the oldest winter resort city on the French Riviera. It attracts numerous tourists worldwide for its mild climate and strategic location by the coast at the foot of the Alps. Since the mid-18th century, Nice has drawn many noble families and the upper class for winter vacations. This is also the main reason why Nice City became a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site.
Tuyen Chau Port City (China)
Tuyen Chau Port City is situated on a narrow plain along the coast of Fujian Province, China. Upon arrival, many tourists are amazed by a series of archaeological sites and centuries-old Islamic tombs. Additionally, Tuyen Chau Port City boasts the Cingjing Mosque dating back to the 9th century. It is one of the earliest mosques in China.
Jomon Prehistoric Archaeological Site, Hokkaido (Japan)
Located in the remote northern part of Japan is the Jomon Prehistoric Archaeological Site, Hokkaido. Visitors here can admire restored cultural villages and museums from the Jomon period. This prehistoric era lasted from the end of the last ice age, around 15,000 years ago, until 300 AD. Its enduring historical value has earned the prehistoric archaeological site a place on the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage List.
14th Century Paintings, Padua (Italy)
The fresco paintings were created from 1302 to 1397 in the city of Padua. This is Italy's 58th UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site. There are 8 religious complex areas here, preserving and showcasing the most beautiful fresco paintings from various artists.
These exquisite fresco paintings are eternal masterpieces of Italy (Image Source: Collection)
Most famous among them is the fresco by the painter Giotto, displayed at the Scrovegni Chapel. This painting is one of the masterpieces that profoundly influenced the art scene of Italy and Europe. Additionally, it marks the beginning of a flourishing period in mural painting.
Chakilo Archaeological Complex (Peru)
The Chaiko archaeological complex is a historical site dating back to the period of 250 - 200 BC. It is the oldest astronomical complex in the Americas, located on the central northern coast of Peru.
There are 13 meticulously built stone towers here on the mountain slopes. The construction of these stone towers allowed ancient Peruvians to accurately determine any date. Meanwhile, astronomers could track the movement of the sun to determine time. It is the cultural values of its era that have placed this location on the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage List.
The Colonies of Benevolence (Belgium and Netherlands)
In 1818, the Colonies of Benevolence were officially established in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. At that time, this area still belonged to Belgium. There were four colonies here, including farms, churches, and residences.
However, the population in the colonies often consists of poor families, wanderers, orphaned children, or beggars. They are allowed to move to this area to work and live in pursuit of happiness.
The Colonies of Benevolence are the living place of people with special circumstances (Image Source: Collection)
These colonies are interspersed between cities of the two countries Netherlands and Belgium such as Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord, Veenhuizen (Netherlands), and Wortel (Belgium). It is the humanitarian values that have helped this location become a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site.
Paseo Del Prado Avenue and Retiro Park, Madrid (Spain)
UNESCO once described the capital Madrid, Spain as the landscape of art and science in the world. Therefore, it's not difficult to understand why Paseo Del Prado Avenue and Retiro Park were chosen as World Heritage Sites. Paseo Del Prado Avenue features tree-lined streets and beautiful classical buildings.
A small corner of Paseo Del Prado Avenue in the beautiful capital of Madrid (Image Source: Collection)
Furthermore, Retiro Park is home to 6 art museums. Among them, the Museo Nacional del Prado amusement area is the most famous landmark in the park. It is considered a historic art and science district influencing Spanish culture.
Kakatiya Rudreshwasa Temple, Telangana state (India)
The Rudreshwara Temple is one of the UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites with a significant influence on Hinduism, India. This temple is also known to Indians as the Ramappa Temple. The Rudreshwara Temple is over 800 years old with the main deity being Lord Shiva. The temple is entirely constructed from black basalt stone and adorned with exquisite sculptures by ancient artisans.
Despite its distance from the city of Hyderabad, this place is gradually becoming a favorite destination for enthusiasts of ancient architecture and archaeology.
Cordouan Lighthouse, Le Verdon-Sur-Mer (France)
This magnificent lighthouse stands at the mouth of the Gironde River, on the Atlantic coast of France. The lighthouse was first opened in 1611. As of the present moment, it is recognized as the oldest surviving lighthouse in France.
The Cordouan Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses in the world (Image Source: Collection)
The lighthouse boasts towering height, reaching up to 61 meters above sea level. This has made Cordouan Lighthouse the 10th tallest lighthouse in the world. To reach the highest point of the lighthouse, visitors must climb 301 steps. In 2021, Cordouan Lighthouse became a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site.
Which country has the most World Heritage Sites?
As of 2023, the world has a total of 1172 UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites. Among them, there are 901 cultural heritage sites, 231 natural heritage sites, and 40 mixed heritage sites. So which country leads in the number of World Heritage Sites?
Italy with 58 World Heritage Sites
Italy is the country with the most World Heritage Sites, boasting 58 sites, including both landmarks and architectural wonders. Not only leading in the number of heritage sites, Italy is also one of the world's top tourist destinations. Among them, the most famous is the ancient city of Verona - the setting for the iconic love story of Romeo and Juliet.
Italy leads in the number of UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites (Image Source: Collection)
China with 56 World Heritage Sites
Ranked second on the list of countries with the most UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites is China. This 'thousand-year-old civilization' owns many unique architectural wonders deeply rooted in East Asian culture. Among them, the Great Wall of China is one of the most famous World Heritage Sites in the world. Additionally, the earthen castles - Fujian Tulou are also remarkable highlights.
The Great Wall of China is a timeless masterpiece (Image Source: Collection)
Germany with 51 World Heritage Sites
Germany is one of the leading countries in classical European architecture. Among them, the most famous is Cologne Cathedral, which has stood for over 630 years, the Hercules Monument, and the Bergpark Wilhelmshohe landscape park. Moreover, Germany also owns a vast fossil site Messel Pit with geological and scientific research value.
Germany boasts many world-class architectural and artistic masterpieces (Image Source: Collection)
France and Spain with 49 World Heritage Sites
France and Spain, two European countries, stand on par with 49 World Heritage Sites each. While France possesses famous architectural landmarks, Spain captivates with its majestic landscapes.
Prominent French heritage sites include Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, the legendary Seine River, and Gothic architectural marvels in Saint-Michel,...
The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris has become a literary legend worldwide (Image Source: Collection)
Meanwhile, Spain boasts magnificent wonders such as Ibiza Island near Valencia City, and the majestic mountain pass Mont Perdu,...
India with 40 World Heritage Sites
India is a South Asian country with the most unique and distinctive culture in the world. Among its iconic landmarks is the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site. Additionally, the Ajanta Caves are acclaimed as the most beautiful Buddhist art masterpieces in the world.
Every year, UNESCO adds new world heritage sites to celebrate human achievements. Therefore, UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites are always a source of pride for any country. With the shared insights above, you can pocket even more useful knowledge. Contact the Mytour hotline of Mytour to book budget-friendly tours with many attractive deals!
