The World Heritage Day has been on 18th April since 1983, when the General Assembly of UNESCO approved the initiative by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). It is committed to promoting the global recognition of world heritage protection, their diversity and significance. This year’s theme of day is “Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures”, aiming to inspire inclusive and creative thinking and tackling of the world heritages and preserving them for generations to come.
China, a civilization with time-honored history, is endowed with rich heritages. Be it natural or cultural, historic or ethical, heritages in China live up to the fullest extent and stand among the world’s TOPs in amount and diversities. In 1985, China joined the International Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and has since been proactively engaging in world heritage projects, and also been a strong partner with UNESCO. The 55 UNESCO listed world heritage sites in China include some world-renowned tourist destinations, e.g. the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses, the Mount Tai, the Mogao Grottoes, and the Potala Palace, etc. They crystalize Chinese cultural profoundness and/or natural wonders, all gems to mankind.
China has been dedicated to world heritage protection and conservation, improving their interpretation and education to the public, as well as deepening exchanges and mutual learning with other civilizations. To celebrate this World Heritage Day, we offer you a feature story on China’s 55 world heritages. Please explore below:
About World Heritage Day
World Heritage Day, also known as the International Monuments and Sites Day, which falls on 18th April each year, is all about recognizing the significance of world heritage protection and preservation. World heritages are artistical beauties and historical treasures, precious assets of the whole humanity.
The World Heritage Day was initiated by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) on 18 April 1982 and approved by the General Assembly of UNESCO in 1983. Its aim is to promote awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage of humanity, their vulnerability and the collective efforts required for their protection and conservation.
This year, the theme of World Heritage Day is entitled “Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures”, which is especially thought-triggering in this difficult time of all.
China’s World Heritages
As of now, China has 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranks top in the world tied with Italy, including 37 cultural heritage sites, 14 natural heritage sites and 4 cultural and natural heritage sites.
Videos of World Heritage Sites in China
The Great Wall
Mount Wudang
Mount Huangshan
Dazu Rock Carvings
Old Town of Lijiang
Sichuan Panda Sanctuaries
Mount Emei Scenic Area
Old Town of Pingyao
Mount Wuyi
Classic Gardens of Suzhou
Mount Lushan
Hubei Shennongjia
List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China
Click HERE to view the List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China
