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Moreover, world heritages must exert significant influence on human interests. Among the titles recognized by UNESCO, world heritage is the most prestigious and esteemed. This is why many nations take pride in owning UNESCO-recognized world heritages.
UNESCO-Recognized World Heritages (In Multiple Parts)
Every year, UNESCO members collaborate to assess and select locations to add to the list of world heritages. From major cities in Europe to the trans-Iranian railway, mining landscapes, all are meticulously considered.
Below is the list of recently added UNESCO-recognized world heritages in recent years.
Mount Lion (Turkey)
Mount Lion is an archaeological mound with a history dating back approximately 8,000 years. This is one of the earliest religious sites in Turkey. The ancient mound is located in the city of Malatya, in eastern Turkey. Malatya plays a significant role in the historical and cultural heritage of the world. Here, you can discover the world's first palace and the ancient ruins of a civilized state.
The ancient mound of Mount Lion was formed over 8,000 years ago (Image Source: Collection)
City of Splendor (France)
No need to introduce much about the city of Nice due to its famous tourist destination status. However, you may wonder why UNESCO chose Nice even though France boasts many equally beautiful cities.
The classic European charm of the city of Nice (Image Source: Collection)
According to UNESCO, Nice is the oldest winter resort city on the French Riviera. It attracts numerous tourists from all over the world due to its mild climate and prime location on the coast at the foot of the Alps. Since the 18th century, Nice has attracted many noble families and the upper class for winter holidays. This is also the main reason why the city of Nice became a UNESCO-recognized world heritage site.
Port City of Tuyenchau (China)
The port city of Tuyenchau is situated in a narrow plain along the coast of Fujian Province, China. Visitors here are often amazed by a series of archaeological sites and centuries-old Islamic tombs. Additionally, Tuyenchau boasts the Cingjing Mosque dating back to the 9th century, one of China's earliest mosques.
Jomon Prehistoric Archaeological Site, Hokkaido (Japan)
Located in the remote northern region of Japan is the Jomon Prehistoric Archaeological Site, Hokkaido. Visitors to this area can admire restored cultural villages and museums from the Jomon period. This prehistoric era lasted from the last ice age, about 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 executed between 1302 and 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 frescoes from various artists.
These exquisite frescoes are eternal masterpieces of Italy (Image Source: Collection)
Most famous is the fresco by the painter Giotto, displayed at the Scrovegni Chapel. This fresco is one of the timeless masterpieces of painting, leaving a profound mark on the art scene of Italy and Europe. Additionally, this work marks the beginning of a strong development period in mural painting.
Chakilo Archaeological Complex (Peru)
The Chaiko archaeological complex is a historical site dating back to 250 - 200 BCE. It is the oldest astronomical complex in the Americas, located on the central northern coast of Peru.
There are 13 stone towers intricately built on the mountainside. 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 site on the UNESCO-recognized world heritage list.
Land of Compassion (Belgium and the Netherlands)
In 1818, the land of compassion was officially established in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. At that time, this place still belonged to Belgium. There were four areas here including farms, churches, and houses.
However, the inhabitants of the compassion lands are often impoverished families, wanderers, orphaned children, or beggars. They are allowed to move to this location to work and live in pursuit of happiness.
The land of compassion is the living place of people with special circumstances (Image Source: Collection)
These lands are interspersed between the cities of the two countries, the Netherlands and Belgium, such as Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord, Veenhuizen (Netherlands), and Wortel (Belgium). It is the human 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 is not difficult to understand why Paseo Del Prado Avenue and Retiro Park were chosen as world heritage sites. Paseo Del Prado Avenue boasts tree-lined streets and stunning classical buildings.
A small corner of Paseo Del Prado Avenue in the beautiful capital of Madrid (Image Source: Collection)
In addition, Retiro Park is home to 6 art museums. Among them, the Museo Nacional del Prado entertainment area is the most famous landmark in the park. It is considered the artistic and scientific old town influencing Spanish culture.
Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple, Telangana state (India)
The Rudreshwara Temple is one of the UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites influencing Hinduism in India. This temple is also known to Indians as the Ramappa Temple. The Rudreshwara Temple is over 800 years old with its main deity being Lord Shiva. The temple is entirely built of black basalt stone with exquisite sculptures by ancient craftsmen.
Although located quite far from Hyderabad city, this place is gradually becoming a favorite destination for enthusiasts of ancient architecture and archaeology.
Cordouan Lighthouse, Le Verdon-Sur-Mer (France)
This majestic lighthouse is located at the mouth of the Gironde River, on the Atlantic coast of France. The lighthouse was first opened in 1611. To this day, 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 impressive height, towering 61 meters above sea level. This has made the Cordouan Lighthouse the 10th tallest lighthouse in the world. To reach the highest point of the lighthouse, visitors must climb 301 steps. In 2021, the Cordouan Lighthouse became a UNESCO-recognized world heritage site.
Which country has the most world heritage sites?
As of 2023, the world has had up to 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 leads with 58 world heritage sites
Italy is the country with the most world heritage sites, boasting 58 sites, including 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 timeless 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 in the list of countries with the most UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites is China. This 'thousand-year civilization' country 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. 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 classic European architecture. Among them, the most famous is Cologne Cathedral, which has existed for over 630 years, the Hercules Monument, and the Bergpark Wilhelmshohe landscape park. Additionally, Germany also owns a large fossil site Messel Pit with geological and scientific research value.
Germany possesses numerous world-class architectural and artistic works (Image Source: Collection)
France and Spain with 49 World Heritage Sites
France and Spain, two European countries, tie with 49 world heritage sites each. While France is renowned for its famous architectural structures, Spain stands out with its magnificent landmarks.
France's famous heritage sites include Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, the legendary Seine River, and Gothic architectures at Saint-Michel,...
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris has become a literary legend worldwide (Image Source: Collection)
Meanwhile, Spain boasts stunning wonders like Ibiza Island near Valencia city, and the majestic mountain pass Mont Perdu,...
India with 40 World Heritage Sites
India, a South Asian country, possesses the most unique and exceptional culture in the world. Among them, India's iconic landmark - the Taj Mahal, has become a UNESCO-recognized world heritage site. Additionally, the Ajanta Caves are also acknowledged as the most beautiful Buddhist art masterpiece in the world.
Every year, UNESCO adds new World Heritage Sites to honor human achievements. Therefore, UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites are always a source of pride for any country. With the insights shared above, you can gain more valuable knowledge. Contact the Mytour hotline at 19003398 to book affordable tours with many attractive deals from Mytour!
