The word “heritage” brings to mind various ideas for different people—and it should as it is a person’s unique, inherited sense of family identity: the values, traditions, culture, and artifacts handed down by previous generations. We absorb a sense of our heritage throughout our lives as we observe and experience the things that make our family unique. Heritage helps us to examine our history, traditions and enables us to develop consciousness about ourselves. It helps us to understand and explain why we are the way we are. We come across terms National heritage site, Historic site, Cultural heritage, World Heritage Site, List of destroyed heritage, Food heritage, Heritage language, Industrial heritage, Natural heritage, Virtual Heritage, Inheritance, Heritage science and Heritage studies and their importance. Heritage is our past that has been preserved for the present and it will be inherited for the future generations. We know a World Heritage Site is a landmark or area with officially authorized protection by an international convention administered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These Sites are designated by UNESCO for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance. World Heritage Site must be a somehow unique landmark which is geographically and historically identifiable and has special cultural or physical significance. For example, World Heritage Sites might be ancient ruins or historical structures, buildings, cities, deserts, forests, islands, lakes, monuments, mountains, or wilderness areas. As of January 2024, a total of 1,199 World Heritage Sites (933 cultural, 227 natural, and 39 mixed properties) exist across 168 countries. Italy with 59 sites is on top, followed by China with 57, then France and Germany with 52 sites each. In India there are 42 world heritage sites. There are truly some incredible heritage sites and monuments around the world. We mention some most beautiful world heritage sites here. (i)Machu Picchu, Peru: Fortified atop the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic structures in South America. This archaeological site is steeped in history, undoubtedly making it one of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It dates to the mid-15th century and only in the early 20th century it was studied and explored in detail. Venturing here is best accomplished from nearby Cusco, which itself was once the capital of the mighty Inca Empire. (ii) Angkor Wat, Cambodia: In modern day Cambodia was built during the Khmer Empire, when it ruled over most of the region. Constructed as a Hindu Temple complex, it was converted into a Buddhist Temple sometime in the 12th century. Over 400 acres (162 hectares) in size, Angkor Wat is among the largest religious monuments in the world. Angkor Wat (located in Siem Reap) is a 1-hour flight from Bangkok, Thailand. Petra, Jordan: It was established over 2,300 years ago. It’s recognizable for its temples and tombs that are carved into rose-colored sandstone. Petra is nestled between mountains, canyons, and river beds, extending over 100 square miles (264 square km). Located in Western Jordan, the landscapes at Petra are nothing short of magnificent. Petra is a 3-hour drive from Amman. (iii) Roman Forum / Colosseum, Italy: In the world, Rome is one of those rare places offering ancient treasures surrounded by spectacular urban luxury. Long a prized notch in every traveler’s belt, the city never seems to lose its appeal. Central to it all are the ruins from perhaps the world’s best-known ancient civilization. The Roman Forum was the beating heart of a vast empire that at one time stretched from Scotland to the Persian Gulf. It was once said all roads lead to Rome, and by that it was meant to the Roman Forum. Marvel at the Temple of Saturn, the Colosseum, and Palatine Hill. Wind through narrow streets to the Pantheon and enjoy a stroll in the bucolic Villa Borghese. One can easily spend multiple days in Rome exploring many centuries of history and barely scratch the surface. There’s a reason they call it the Eternal City. (iv) Chichen Itza, Mexico: It dates to the pre-Columbian period and is one of the largest known Maya cities. Only a couple hours’ drive from Cancun, it is today one of Mexico’s most well-known archeological sites. (v) Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt: Ancient Pyramids of Giza were built around 2,500 B.C. Hardly there is any need of an introduction, this complex, made up of pyramids, rock tombs, and a sphinx, is one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. These pyramids served as tombs for Pharaohs, who were mummified and buried with treasures to prepare them for the afterlife. There is still debate among historians, anthropologists, and archaeologists as to the precise construction techniques used by the Ancient Egyptians. Located in the Giza Necropolis complex on the outskirts of Cairo, one can easily visit the three main pyramids in addition to the Great Sphinx. The site itself is open during daylight hours throughout the week and can be reached via public transportation or minibus. It is possible to tour the insides of some of the pyramids; however, access is limited so make sure one check in advance. Various cafes, shops, and restaurants are located in nearby neighborhoods. (vi) Elmina Castle, Ghana: Erected in 1482 by the Portugese, Elmina Castle on Ghana’s Atlantic Coast houses a monstrous legacy. The oldest European building constructed south of the Sahara Desert, Elmina Castle was one of the most important stops along routes comprising the African Slave Trade. Dutch colonizers seized the fort in 1637 and operated it continually as a slave depot until the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1814 forbade the practice. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle contains preserved slave holding cells where captives faced hellish conditions for sometimes months. In the face of rising nationalism and conflict, it’s more important than ever to visit and contemplate places like Elmina Castle. Humanity need not be doomed to forever repeat the sins of the past. (vii) The Parthenon, Athenian Acropolis, Greece: Prior to the rise of Rome, Ancient Greece was the empire of Classical European Antiquity. The writings of Homer, Thucydides, Herodotus, and others, revealed that Ancient Greece flourished particularly during the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. It was during this period that the famed Parthenon was constructed atop the Acropolis of Athens, a rocky citadel set above the city. Recognized as an enduring symbol of Athenian democracy and Western civilization, the Parthenon ranks among the world’s most important cultural monuments. Walking among the ruins, it’s possible to recall an idyllic time when philosophers sought meaning and order in the world around them. Athenian summers tend to be hot and dry so the best time to visit is in the fall. (viii) Taj Mahal, India: The India’s most recognizable cultural landmark was built in 1943 AD as an ornate mausoleum complex for Mumtaz Mahal, wife to the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Located in Agra in India’s most-populous state, Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal is one of the most revered architectural masterpieces in world. It stands proudly and effervescently as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World! One must also tour Agra Fort, a former residence for Mughal Dynasty emperors. Visit the monumental Delhi Gate before walking through Taj Garden and Mumtaz Park on way to the Taj Mahal. With its long history and rich cultural treasures, Agra is a fantastic place to simply wander around. (ix) Borobudur Temple, Indonesia: Borobudur Temple in Indonesia. Located in Central Java just outside Yogyakarta, Borobudur is regarded as the world’s largest Buddhist Temple. Initially constructed in the 9th century, it is one of the most outstanding examples of Javanese Buddhist Architecture in existence. A pilgrim trail leads visitors around and through the temple, meandering past nearly 1,500 exquisite artistic reliefs. ‘When viewed from above, the entire complex resembles an elaborate mandala.
Whether it’s visiting a site, volunteering, supporting conservation efforts, or advocating for policy changes, every action counts in safeguarding our shared legacy for generations to come. In brief, the call of the time is that we must preserve our ancient monuments not only for their economic and social importance but also for their historical importance as we can proclaim with the beat of drum that our past was great and illuminating.
The ascending design evokes a sense of journeying towards enlightenment as the temple climbs towards its central point. Indonesia has done much to promote tourism in recent years. (x) Burzhoma (Kashmir): In the Kashmiri language ‘Burzahom’ means birch”, a tree species (that generally grows in the elevation range of 3,000 to 4,200 metres (9,800 to 13,800 ft) in the Himalayas), which is found in the excavated housing area in the form of roofing material, and thus confirming the existence of the tree even in the pre-historic Neolithic times. Based on a similar model the Burzahom site has been named as the Northern Neolithic Culture in view of its distinctive structural features with profusion of tools made of bones and stones and tools representing the ritualistic practices. Skeletal remains of Neolithic people found at Burzahom are similar to those found in Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilization. The Vedic Aryan culture extended into Kashmir as per some historians, but archaeological investigation at Burzahom does not support the “Aryans in Kashmir” theory. This site was nominated on 15 April 2014 for inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is yet to be approved. The Mughal gardens of Srinagar are also proposed to be included in UNESCO world heritage sites. It is reported that China and Italy are the countries with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, boasting a total of 55 sites each. Close behind is Spain, which has total of 48 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other countries packed full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites include Germany with a total of 47 UNESCO sites, France with a total of 45 sites, and India which has 38 UNESCO Sites.(xi) Delos,Greece: Delos is a Greek island and archaeological site in the Aegean Sea’s Cyclades archipelago, near Mykonos. The mythological birthplace of Apollo, it was a major religious center and port during the 1st millennium B.C. The island’s ruins encompass Doric temples, markets, an amphitheater, houses with mosaics and the iconic Terrace of the Lions statues. Sea, rain and wind are making Delos disappear. The alarm was raised by the director of the French Archaeological School at Athens A. Farnoux, during a two day international conference at Zappeion on the impact of climate change on cultural heritage. Sea and wind erosion are the key causes of damage suffered by the antiquities of Delos. “The phenomenon has clearly intensified over the last decade’, noted the speaker and pointed out that ‟we have found severe damage inflicted on masonry (especially on fragile walls made of limestone), joints being eliminated and water penetrating into the foundations of buildings. The rains of recent years have raised the water table level and in conjunction with the rise of sea level, we see a destructive invasion of water into the archaeological site”.(xii) Rapa Nui: Also known as Easter Island, is a 14-mile-long triangle of land that sits 2,300 miles west of Chile, making it one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth. The island is famous for its 900 monumental stone statues, ranging from 2 meters (6.5 feet) to 20 meters high. Among the world’s most recognizable and celebrated cultural landmarks, the works are increasingly under threat from climate change as is the way of life of the Rapa Nui people. Its history has long fascinated researchers, both locally and internationally. Much of Rapa Nui’s material heritage is concentrated on the coast, making it particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels. The combination of climate change, and the coastal location of 90% of archaeological sites on Rapa Nui, create a particularly urgent situation. Every year, World Heritage Day is observed on 18 April. World Heritage Day, which is also known as the International Monuments and Sites Day, celebrates the work carried out by the ICOMOS – International Council on Monuments and Sites. ICOMOS, organization was established on the principles set forth in the Venice Charter, otherwise known as the 1964 International Charter on the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites. The organization was founded after a need was identified to protect these valued locations, and it saw the coming together of experts from hundreds of related fields. These include architects, engineers, geographers, civil engineers, and artists and archaeologists. Each year they work to help ensure that some of the world’s most beautiful sites and important cultural monuments remain preserved for future generations. Since it’s inception it has grown to include almost 10,000 members in over 150 countries all over the world. Of these 10,000 members over 400 are members from institutions, national committees, and international scientific committees, all working together to save important sites and identify new ones that need to be added to the watch list. There is a theme that is assigned to each World Heritage Day. The theme of World Heritage Day 2024 is “Discover and experience diversity”. Here’s a closer look at why this day matters: 1. Protecting Our Global Legacy: Heritage sites are exceptional cultural and natural treasures that represent the diversity and richness of our planet’s history, beauty, and knowledge. 2. Fostering Cultural Understanding: By celebrating the World Heritage List’s diverse tapestry of cultures, traditions, and landscapes, we encourage cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. 3. Inspiring Sustainable Practices: Many Heritage sites offer valuable lessons on sustainable living and resource management. This day encourages us to learn from these examples and implement sustainable practices in our own lives, contributing to a healthier planet for all. 4. Promoting Environmental Awareness: Heritage sites often encompass breathtaking natural wonders, highlighting the importance of environmental protection. 5.Strengthening Communities: Heritage sites often act as focal points for communities, fostering a sense of shared identity and pride. 6. Advocating for Policy Change: This day is a platform to advocate for stronger policies and funding mechanisms to protect these vulnerable sites. 7. Celebrating Human Achievements: Heritage sites stand as testaments to human ingenuity, creativity, and resilience. This day allows us to celebrate the accomplishments of past generations and inspire future generations to continue building upon this legacy. 8.Recognizing Indigenous Knowledge: Many Heritage sites embody the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous communities. 9. Engaging Young People: This day is an opportunity to educate and inspire young people about the importance of protecting our shared heritage. 10. A Call to Action: Ultimately, This day is a call to action. It urges us to go beyond mere celebration and take concrete steps to protect these irreplaceable treasures. Whether it’s visiting a site, volunteering, supporting conservation efforts, or advocating for policy changes, every action counts in safeguarding our shared legacy for generations to come. In brief, the call of the time is that we must preserve our ancient monuments not only for their economic and social importance but also for their historical importance as we can proclaim with the beat of drum that our past was great and illuminating.
(The authors write regularly for the opinion pages of Kashmir Horizon. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the authors and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”.)
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