Discovering the World Cultural Heritage List: 10 Must-See Sites Around the Globe
As individuals, cultural heritage is an integral part of our identity. Our heritage gives us a sense of belongingness to our roots and familiarizes us with our history, traditions, and culture. UNESCO recognizes the importance of protecting and preserving world heritage sites and believes that cultural heritage is crucial for our sustainable development. UNESCO’s World Heritage List is a collection of sites that are deemed to have outstanding universal value and are representative of humanity’s cultural and natural diversity. Here’s a list of ten world heritage sites that are a must-visit for any history or culture enthusiast.
1. Petra, Jordan
Petra is a city that was carved out of sandstone more than 2,000 years ago. This city is located in the barren desert of Jordan and was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. This site showcases an impressive blend of Eastern civilization and Hellenistic Architecture. Petra’s iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), and Monastery are world-renowned landmarks. The site also boasts various temples, amphitheaters, and tombs, making it an exceptional destination for sightseeing.
2. Great Wall of China, China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most prominent landmarks of China and was constructed to guard against invasions from the north. This wall stretches over 13,000 miles and is said to be visible from space. Visitors to the Great Wall can either choose to hike to different points or take a cable car to reach the famed sections like Badaling and Jinshanling.
3. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel located on a mountain ridge in Peru. The site was built in the 15th century and was abandoned after the Spanish conquest. This ancient city is among the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Visitors can observe the ruins of houses, temples, and palaces while marveling at the breathtaking mountain views.
4. Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal, situated in the city of Agra, is one of the world’s most beautiful monuments and an outstanding example of Islamic architecture. The monument was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan to commemorate his wife whose sepulcher rests inside the mausoleum. The Taj Mahal’s remarkable beauty is enhanced by the skillful use of symmetry and geometric shapes and the intricate decorations that cover the walls.
5. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder and the world’s most extensive coral reef system. This site boasts a diverse range of marine inhabitants, including turtles, sharks, and dolphins, and is a popular place for scuba diving and snorkeling. The reef covers over 3000 individual reefs and coral cays and is spread over 133,000 square miles.
6. Stonehenge, United Kingdom
Stonehenge is an ancient prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, and is shrouded in mystery. The site comprises a ring of standing stones, each around 13 feet high and weighing 25 tons. Visitors to the site can explore different theories on the purpose of this imposing site, including various mystical and religious beliefs and rituals.
7. The Statue of Liberty, United States of America
The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, is located in New York Harbor. The statue was gifted by France to the USA in 1886 and is made of copper sheets. Visitors can climb up to the top of the statue to enjoy the panoramic views of New York City.
8. Colosseum, Italy
The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater in Rome, Italy, and is renowned for its impressive engineering and architectural design. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles. Visitors to the site can view the impressive structure and learn about the history and culture of ancient Rome.
9. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is one of the largest religious monuments in the world and showcases the classical style of Khmer architecture. The temple was constructed in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple but gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple. Visitors can explore the intricately designed facades, towers, and galleries, and witness the sunrise over the serene waters which leads to an unforgettable sight.
10. Serengeti Migration, Tanzania
The Serengeti Migration is one of nature’s most dramatic events and a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast. This annual migration is a continuous movement of huge herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles over the vast plains of Tanzania. Visitors to the site can experience the breathtaking views of grazing animals in the wild and predators like lions and cheetahs hunting their prey.
Conclusion
UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites boast a fascinating blend of natural and cultural landmarks, and the ten sites mentioned above are just a selection from the vast list. These sites offer unique experiences that tell a tale of human history, nature’s wonders, and architectural achievements, making them a must-see for anyone passionate about discovering the world’s diverse cultural heritage.
