The dictionary defines heritage as ‘features belonging to the culture of a particular society, such as traditions, languages, or buildings, that were created in the past and still have historical importance’. So when one talks in terms of places, the United Nations has selected some which can be considered as humanity’s most significant locations. These cover patches which range from historical icons like Venetian Lagoon to the Imperial Palace in Beijing and the Chartres Cathedral. This World Heritage Day, here is a list of some of mankind’s highest achievements as well as natural wonders which should feature on every traveller’s wishlist.
China
With 52 noteworthy sites, China ranks second in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The Imperial Palace of the Qing Dynasty consists of 114 buildings constructed between the years 1625–26 and 1783. It contains an important library and testifies to the foundation of the last dynasty that ruled China before it expanded its power to the center of the country and moved the capital to Beijing. This palace then became auxiliary to the Imperial Palace in Beijing. This architectural edifice offers important historical testimony to the history of the Qing Dynasty and to the cultural traditions of the Manchu and other tribes in the north of China.
Italy
Italy is home to 53 UNESCO world heritage sites, which is more than any other country. Apart from these must-sees, it also has the largest number of cultural sites that one must experience. Celebrated throughout the world for its singular beauty, Venice and its lagoon were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1987.
India
World Heritage sites aren’t simply ancient stones. UNESCO’s list also includes natural wonders — the Kaziranga National Park, situated in Assam. It is one of the last areas in eastern India which is undisturbed by a human presence. It is inhabited by more than 2,000 rhinos and is home to a large breeding population of elephants, wild water buffaloes and swamp deer.
France
France boasts of 41 heritage sites preserved under the UNESCO. Though it had more than 1.3 million visitors each year, after the devastating fire, Chartres Cathedral or Notre Dame is now off the list of visitors for six years — the time that it will take to rebuild. Admire it from afar or better still take part in the process of rebuilding by contributing to the national fund set up by the French government for the purpose.
Spain
Spain is home to a staggering 45 UNESCO sites, third in number only to Italy and China. Mérida, a model Roman city was established in 25 BC and according to UNESCO is a “remarkable example of a Roman city built according to all the Roman urban design rules.” From an Amphitheatre to an intricate water supply system, the city offers a glimpse into the ancient past. Apart from this, another must-visit place is the Toledo — situated in central Spain. This city of three cultures was added to the UNESCO list for its extensive history spanning 2,000 years, as well as for its many years of co-existence among Jewish, Christian and Muslim groups, earning it the nickname City of three cultures. Synagogues, mosques and churches are some of the popular sites.
