World Heritage Week- 12-19th Nov 2020 - Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK World Heritage Week is praised everywhere throughout the world.

Our event will be taking place during 12-19th November 2020 in Riyadh.

The week celebrates all things Arts, Culture and Heritage related. It brings together communities and cultural institutions, academics and enthusiasts, to build awareness about the value of heritage and support its conservation. All 19 G20 countries and regions will be present at the event, showcasing their unique culture, history, museums, archaeology and UNESCO heritage sites.

Find out more and keep up to date at www.worldheritageweek.com

WORLD HERITAGE AWARDS The World Heritage Awards promote best practices related to heritage conservation, management, research, education and communication.

In this way, the Awards scheme contributes to a stronger public recognition of cultural heritage as a strategic resource for society and economy. There will be award categories for Arts, Culture, Museums, Archaeology, Natural sites, Monuments, Education, Sustainability, Tourism and Environment.

WORLD HERITAGE CONFERENCE

WORLD HERITAGE EXPO

The Conference consists of the representatives of UNESCO's Member States, to discuss and debate the future of the arts, culture and heritage with a view to promote tourism, awareness and cultural education across the globe.

An unique experience to influence the future of the world's heritage development.

To celebrate, collaborate and innovate. Be part of an unforgettable moment of endless opportunities.

Immerse yourself at 19 member states stands, with themes ranging from the world's best sights and attractions, culture, arts, history, cuisine, architecture, and sustainability.

The Expo will be split into the following 19 member states: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, and the European Union

Unique to Saudi Arabia the Al-Hijr Archaeological Site is a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an ancient archaeological site that originated to the pre-Islamic times. It is also the first site to become designated as a UNESCO site in Saudi Arabia. The location of this city along the ancient trade route is critical to its cultural significance.

The Awards will contribute by identifying, promoting and facilitating the upscaling of best practices in cultural heritage-led innovation and diplomacy.

Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape (2018) Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madâin Sâlih) (2008) At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah (2010) Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah (2014) Rock Art in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia (2015)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Argentina presents virtually the entire range of possible climates seen on earth, including humid warm, cold dry, dry warm, temperate, cold humid, semi-arid, steppe, subtropical, sub-Antarctic, snowy, and cold mountain.

It enjoys a huge range of micro-climate ranging from the tundra in the sub-polar south to the tropical climates of the north. Argentina accepted the UNESCO World Heritage Convention on the 23rd of August, 1978, and, as of 2014, eleven locations have been inscribed on the World Heritage List, most notably Los Glaciares National Park.

Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas (1999) Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba (2000) Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) (1983, 1984) Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System (2014) Quebrada de Humahuaca (2003) The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement (2016)

Iguazu National Park (1984) Ischigualasto / Talampaya Natural Parks (2000) Los Alerces National Park (2017) Los Glaciares National Park (1981) Península Valdés (1999)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

There's a great variation of Unesco World Heritage sites in Australia, from the Sydney Opera House to the Tasmanian Wilderness. From national monuments to avant-garde galleries and independent theatres, these are Australia’s greatest historical and cultural treasures. Attend a full-scale performance at iconic venues such as the Sydney Opera House, or catch a gig by up-and-coming local musicians in a bar or pub. Read on to find Australia’s finest historical and cultural offerings.

Australian Convict Sites (2010) Budj Bim Cultural Landscape (2019) Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens (2004) Sydney Opera House (2007)

Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte) (1994) Fraser Island (1992) Gondwana Rainforests of Australia (1986, 1994) Great Barrier Reef (1981) Greater Blue Mountains Area (2000) Heard and McDonald Islands (1997) Lord Howe Island Group (1982) Macquarie Island (1997) Ningaloo Coast (2011) Purnululu National Park (2003) Shark Bay, Western Australia (1991) Wet Tropics of Queensland (1988)

Kakadu National Park (1981, 1987, 1992) Tasmanian Wilderness (1982, 1989) Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (1987, 1994) Willandra Lakes Region (1981)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Brasilia (1987) Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia (1985) Historic Centre of São Luís (1997) Historic Centre of the Town of Diamantina (1999) Historic Centre of the Town of Goiás (2001) Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda (1982) Historic Town of Ouro Preto (1980) Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) (1983,1984) Pampulha Modern Ensemble (2016) Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea (2012) Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas (1985) São Francisco Square in the Town of São Cristóvão (2010) Serra da Capivara National Park (1991) Valongo Wharf Archaeological Site (2017) From the famous Brazil nightlife to its spectacular beaches, there are so many things to do in this beautiful country. Firstly, get a grip on the country’s complex history at some of its amazing museums. From the beliefs and cultures of its indigenous peoples, the periods of Dutch and Portuguese colonisations, as well as the African influence dating back to the days of slavery, so many different ethnic groups have contributed to Brazil’s vibrant cultural life. Dive into Brazil’s rich art history at the Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo, before wandering the streets of Downtown São Paulo to soak up all the architectural goodness. If you love getting lost in nature, Brazil is sure to become one of your favourite outdoor playgrounds. Hike through the Tijuca National Park to get to the top of Mount Corcovado, which offers some seriously sweet panoramas of Rio de Janeiro. Trek through the Amazon to discover a variety of plant and animal life, as well as learning about its indigenous peoples. Take a helicopter ride over the impressive Iguaçu Falls and relax on one of Fortaleza’s beautiful beaches. Hop from the beach bed to the nightclub in Fortaleza’s Praia de Iracema district, or if you find yourself in Rio de Janeiro in February, prepare yourself for Carnaval, hands-down the biggest party in the world.

Atlantic Forest South-East Reserves (1999) Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves (2001) Central Amazon Conservation Complex (2000, 2003) Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks (2001) Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves (1999) Iguaçu National Park (1986) Pantanal Conservation Area (2000)

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity (2019)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Whether you’re searching for dinosaur skeletons, walking in the footsteps of Vikings or traversing glaciers, Canada is a fascinating country. Its 18 World Heritage Sites are wonderfully unique, each representing a crucial period in Canadian history. If you’re considering hopping on a flight to Canada, it’s well worth trying to see one or two of the country’s World Heritage sites.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (1981) Historic District of Old Québec (1985) L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site (1978) Landscape of Grand Pré (2012) Old Town Lunenburg (1995) Red Bay Basque Whaling Station (2013) Rideau Canal (2007) SGang Gwaay (1981) Writing-on-Stone / Áísínai’pi (2019)

Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks (1984, 1990) Dinosaur Provincial Park (1979) Gros Morne National Park (1987) Joggins Fossil Cliffs (2008) Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek (1979, 1992, 1994) Miguasha National Park (1999) Mistaken Point (2016) Nahanni National Park (1978) Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (1995) Wood Buffalo National Park (1983)

Pimachiowin Aki (2018)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

As of 2019, 55 noteworthy Chinese sites were inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List: 37 Cultural Heritage, 14 Natural Heritage, and 4 Cultural and Natural Heritage, ranking first in the world. These 50 diverse sites include palaces perched on mountaintops, giant panda sanctuaries, and traditional villages that transport back in time. The most celebrated places like the Great Wall of China or Emperor Qin's terra-cotta warriors need no introduction. Yet the immense nation of China offers an incredible wealth of World Heritage Sites, just begging to be explored.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Forty-four. That’s the number of World Heritage sites in France preserved under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Whether natural or man-made, achieving World Heritage site status is a bit like winning the Oscars—a long process requiring copious documentation and input that results in a guarantee of quality for visitors. But above all—and that's the point—the designations ensure that the most exceptional examples of our shared human heritage will be around for future generations to gawk at and explore. France may be fourth in the world (after Italy, China, and Spain) when it comes to having the most UNESCO sites, but many of them fly under the visitors' radar. In an effort to correct that, here’s a peek at five (well, technically six) outstanding World Heritage havens across the country.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Two thousand years of history have left behind a significant legacy in Germany: silent yet eloquent witnesses to magnificent cultural achievements and natural phenomena. Many of Germany’s most impressive architectural monuments, historical towns, significant industrial sites and distinctive natural landscapes – 46 in total – have been deemed to be of international historical importance by UNESCO. This is a legacy that is meant for you as well: because every visit to a UNESCO World Heritage site is a journey back in time to a shared cultural history. Succumb to the magic of these historical locations and set out to discover the wealth that mankind has inherited. In Germany, you’ll strike gold 46 times.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

India has always been famous for its rich heritage and ancient culture. So the onset of heritage tourism in India was long anticipated. India’s glorious past and cultural diversity make a potent blend which attracts millions of tourists each year to its heritage tourist attractions. The government of India and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture encourage heritage tourism in India by offering several benefits to the Indian states that are particularly famous for attracting tourists. India's rich heritage is amply reflected in the various temples, palaces, monuments, and forts that can be found everywhere in the country. This has led to the increase in India's heritage tourism.

Qutub Minar, New Delhi Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh Hampi Vijayanagara Empire, Karnataka Mahabodhi Temple, Bihar Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh Lothal Site, Gujarat Ajanta Ellora Caves, Maharashtra Mahabalipuram Shore, Tamil Nadu Konarak Sun Temple, Orissa Jaisalmer Hill Fort, Rajasthan

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Having stopover in myriad places in Indonesia is what makes this country a wonderful place to visit. The beauty of scenic natural landscapes blended with various unique culture of its people. Enjoy the untouched beaches, mountains, lakes, and many more pleasing destinations as well as the magnificent city skylines throughout the country. And when you decide to see them all, a visit won’t be enough to embrace the wonders of Indonesia.

Borobudur Temple Compounds (1991) Cultural Landscape of Bali Province: the Subak System as a Manifestation of the Tri Hita Karana Philosophy (2012) Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto (2019) Prambanan Temple Compounds (1991) Sangiran Early Man Site (1996)

Komodo National Park (1991) Lorentz National Park (1999) Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra (2004) Ujung Kulon National Park (1991)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Italy counts 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within its borders, the most of any country on the World Heritage List. Italy’s World Heritage Sites are well-known. The Dolomites; The City of Verona; Ferrara and the Po River Delta; the Historic Centers of San Gimignano, Florence and Rome; Hadrian's Villa and the Villa D’Este at Tivoli; the archaeological area of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata; the Sassi (rupestrian architecture and churches) of Matera; the Amalfi Coast and the Aeolian Islands are just some among many others. All 55 sites have been, at one time or another, travel destinations for those seeking out history, art and culture in the Bel Paese. Renewed efforts by the Institutes to preserve these sites include the call to everyone to get to know them better. Here, you can begin a virtual journey into some of the most fascinating among them, those that evoke an experience rich in life, passions, and dreams.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Japan is truly timeless, a place where ancient traditions are fused with modern life as if it were the most natural thing in the world. On the surface Japan appears exceedingly modern, but travelling around it offers numerous opportunities to connect with the country's traditional culture. Spend the night in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), sleeping on futons and tatami mats, and padding through well-worn wooden halls to the bathhouse (or go one step further and sleep in an old farmhouse).

Meditate with monks or learn how to whisk bitter matcha (powdered green tea) into a froth. From the splendour of a Kyoto geisha dance to the spare beauty of a Zen rock garden, Japan has the power to enthral even the most jaded traveller. Japan is a long and slender, highly volcanic archipelago. It's over two-thirds mountains, with bubbling hot springs at every turn. In the warmer months there is excellent hiking, through cedar groves and fields of wildflowers, up to soaring peaks and ancient shrines (the latter founded by wandering ascetics). In the winter, all this is covered with snow and the skiing is world class. (And if you've never paired hiking or skiing with soaking in onsen, you don't know what you've been missing.) Meanwhile in the southern reaches, there are tropical beaches for sunning, snorkelling and diving. There are 23 UNESCO world heritage sites.

Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area (1993) Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration (2013) Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu (2000) Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region (2018) Himeji-jo (1993) Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land (2011) Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) (1996) Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) (1994) Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara (1998) Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama (1995) Itsukushima Shinto Shrine (1996) Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape (2007) Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan (2019) Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region (2017) Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range (2004) Shrines and Temples of Nikko (1999) Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining (2015) The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement (2016) Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites (2014)

Ogasawara Islands (2011) Shirakami-Sanchi (1993) Shiretoko (2005) Yakushima (1993)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks, Frida’s angst: Mexico conjures up diverse, vivid dreams. And the reality lives up to them. Mexico's pre-Hispanic civilizations built some of the world’s great archaeological monuments, including Teotihuacán’s towering pyramids and the exquisite Maya temples of Palenque. The Spanish colonial era left beautiful towns full of tree-shaded plazas and richly sculpted stone churches and mansions, while modern Mexico has seen a surge of great art from the likes of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Top-class museums and galleries document the country's fascinating history and its endless creative verve. Popular culture is just as vibrant, from the underground dance clubs and street art of Mexico City to the wonderful handicrafts of the indigenous population.

Mexico has 35 overall UNESCO world heritage sites,27 Cultural, 6 natural sites, and two mixed site included on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Split by a hair-trigger border, the Korean Peninsula offers the traveller a dazzling range of experiences, beautiful landscapes and 5000 years of culture and history. Decorum plays a major role in Korean people’s generosity to outsiders, and their instinctive graciousness possesses a highly endearing quality.

Helpfulness abounds, whether it’s at a tourist office, asking someone for directions or finding yourself deep in a conversation with a stranger. Time-honoured Confucian principles have set a template for strong civic pride in a society that is introspective, perhaps, but also decorous and affirmative. You may pass glorious landscapes and gaze out across dazzling seas but don't forget, half of your travel journey will be about the people, and the Korean tribe are a joy to be among.

South Korea’s compact size and superb transport infrastructure mean that tranquillity is always within easy reach of urban sprawl. Hike to the summits of craggy mountains – some of which transform into ski slopes come winter – enveloped within densely forested national parks. Get further off the beaten path than you thought possible by sailing to remote islands, where farming and fishing folk welcome you into their homes or simple seafood cafes. Gaze up at the distant stars from serene villages surrounded by rice fields, sleeping in rustic hanok (traditional wooden house) guesthouses. There are 14 world heritage sites.

Baekje Historic Areas (2015) Changdeokgung Palace Complex (1997) Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen Sites (2000) Gyeongju Historic Areas (2000) Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks (1995) Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong (2010) Hwaseong Fortress (1997) Jongmyo Shrine (1995) Namhansanseong (2014) Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty (2009) Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea (2018) Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple (1995) Seowon, Korean Neo-Confucian Academies (2019)

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes (2007)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Black-maned lions framed against Kalahari dunes; powdery beaches lapped by two oceans; starstudded desert skies; jagged, lush mountains – this truly is a country of astounding diversity. South Africa's ever-changing scenery is the perfect canvas on which to paint an activity-packed trip. Try rock climbing in the craggy Cederberg, surfing off the Eastern Cape coast, abseiling from Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain, bungee jumping from the Garden Route's Bloukrans Bridge, or swinging into Graskop Gorge. If adrenaline sports aren't your thing, opt instead for a hike: options include multi-day treks through wildlife reserves, dusty day walks in the Karoo semidesert, 'slackpacking' trails along the Cape coast, or an overnight hike into the sometimes snow-capped peaks of the Drakensberg. To visit South Africa without learning about its tumultuous history would be to miss a crucial part of the country's identity. Museums from Jo'burg to Robben Island, many including exhibits on the apartheid era, might not be lighthearted, but will help you to understand the fabric of South African society and appreciate how far the country has come. Continue your history lesson with a township visit to the likes of Soweto (Jo'burg) or Langa (Cape Town), chatting to locals and learning that, despite the heart-wrenching past, there is great pride here and an immense sense of promise for the future. South Africa's landscapes are stunning, from the burning Karoo and Kalahari semideserts to the misty heights of the Drakensberg range and the massive Blyde River Canyon. Even in urban Cape Town, you need only look up to see the beautiful fynbos (indigenous flora) climbing the slopes of Table Mountain, while nearby, two of the world's most dramatic coastal roads lead to Cape Point and Hermanus. Add the vineyards carpeting the Cape Winelands, old-growth forests along the Garden Route, wrinkly mountain ranges from the Cederberg to the Swartberg, and Indian Ocean beaches, and there's a staggering variety to enjoy.

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa (1999, 2005) Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (2003) Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (2007) Robben Island (1999) Khomani Cultural Landscape (2017)

Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains (2018) Cape Floral Region Protected Areas (2004, 2015) iSimangaliso Wetland Park (1999) Vredefort Dome (2005)

Maloti-Drakensberg Park (2000, 2013)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

The world's largest country offers it all, from historic cities and idyllic countryside to artistic riches, epic train rides and vodka-fuelled nightlife. If ancient walled fortresses, glittering palaces and swirly-spired churches are what you’re after, focus on European Russia. Here, Moscow and St Petersburg are the must-see destinations, twin repositories of eyeboggling national treasures, political energies and contemporary creativity. Within easy reach of these cities are charming historical towns and villages, such as Veliky Novgorod, Pskov and Suzdal, where the vistas dotted with onion domes and lined with gingerbread cottages measure up to the rural Russia of popular imagination. Whether you’re a culture vulture in search of inspiration from great artists and writers or an adventure addict looking for new horizons to conquer, Russia amply delivers. Tread in the footsteps of literary greats, including Tolstoy and Pushkin, on their country estates. Ski or climb lofty mountains in the Caucasus, go trekking or whitewater rafting in the Altai Republic, hike around Lake Baikal, or scale an active volcano in Kamchatka – the variety of possibilities will make your head spin. Russia has 29 world heritage sites; 18 cultural and 11 natural.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

and canyoning in mountain gorges, kayaking over Kekova's sunken ruins and traditional gület cruises on the Mediterranean and Aegean. Or take to the air with Ölüdeniz' thrilling paragliding flights or a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia. For a fresh angle on stunning Turkish scenery, trek to highland pastures or walk part of the Lycian Way trail. In town, take a culinary course, soak in the hamam or sign up for a culinary or cultural walking tour.

A richly historical land with some of the best cuisine you will ever taste, scenery from beaches to mountains and the great city of İstanbul. From the ancient port city of Ephesus (Efes) to the soaring Byzantine dome of Aya Sofya, Turkey has more than its fair share of world-famous ruins and monuments. A succession of historical figures and empires – including the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans – have all left their mark on this former stopover along the Silk Road. Experiencing their legacy takes you from the closeted quarters of the sultan and his harem in İstanbul's sprawling Topkapı Palace to the romantic and mysterious Lycian ruins on Mediterranean beaches. Turkey's diverse landscapes, from Aegean olive groves to eastern steppe, provide a lyrical setting for its many great ruins. The country's most magical scenery is to be found in Asian Anatolia, where beautiful vistas are provided by the vertiginous Mediterranean coastline, Cappadocia's otherworldly 'fairy chimney' rock formations and wavy valleys, the alpine pastures of the Kaçkar Mountains, and golden beaches such as 18km-long Patara. Whether you settle down with a çay to enjoy the view across mountainringed Lake Eğirdir or explore the hilly hinterland on the southwest coast's many peninsulas, Turkey's landscape will leave a lasting impression. Turkey offers activities to suit every temperament, from outdoors adventure to cultural enrichment. Watery fun includes diving, windsurfing, rafting

Aphrodisias (2017) Archaeological Site of Ani (2016) Archaeological Site of Troy (1998) Bursa and Cumalıkızık: the Birth of the Ottoman Empire (2014) City of Safranbolu (1994) Diyarbakır Fortress and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape (2015) Ephesus (2015) Göbekli Tepe (2018) Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği (1985) Hattusha: the Hittite Capital (1986) Historic Areas of Istanbul (1985) Nemrut Dağ (1987) Neolithic Site of Çatalhöyük (2012) Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape (2014) Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex (2011) Xanthos-Letoon (1988)

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia (1985) Hierapolis-Pamukkale (1988)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Made up of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom may not always seem very united - indeed, Scotland came close to voting for independence in 2014. Yet this historic state is packed with appeal for the visitor, from pulsing cities to stunning countryside. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are fine destinations in their own right, and travels between these countries reveal both the shared culture and distinct local flavours that contribute to the UK. There are 32 world heritage sites.

Blaenavon Industrial Landscape (2000) Blenheim Palace (1987) Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church (1988) Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd (1986) City of Bath (1987) Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape (2006) Derwent Valley Mills (2001) Durham Castle and Cathedral (1986)

Frontiers of the Roman Empire (1987, 2005, 2008) Gorham's Cave Complex (2016) Heart of Neolithic Orkney (1999) Historic Town of St George and Related Fortifications, Bermuda (2000) Ironbridge Gorge (1986) Jodrell Bank Observatory (2019) Liverpool – Maritime Mercantile City (2004) Maritime Greenwich (1997) New Lanark (2001) Old and New Towns of Edinburgh (1995) Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church (1987) Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal (2009) Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (2003) Saltaire (2001) Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites (1986) Studley Royal Park including the Ruins of Fountains Abbey (1986) The English Lake District (2017) The Forth Bridge (2015) Tower of London (1988)

Dorset and East Devon Coast (2001) Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast (1986) Gough and Inaccessible Islands (1995, 2004) Henderson Island (1988)

St Kilda (1986, 2004, 2005)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (1982) Chaco Culture (1987) Independence Hall (1979) La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico (1983) Mesa Verde National Park (1978) Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville (1987) Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point (2014) San Antonio Missions (2015) Statue of Liberty (1984) Taos Pueblo (1992) The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright (2019)

The great American experience is about so many things: bluegrass and beaches, snow-covered peaks and redwood forests, restaurant-loving cities and big open skies.

America is the birthplace of LA, Las Vegas, Chicago, Miami, Boston and New York City – each a brimming metropolis whose name alone conjures a million different notions of culture, cuisine and entertainment. Look more closely, and the American quilt unfurls in all its surprising variety: the eclectic music scene of Austin, the easygoing charms of antebellum Savannah, the eco-consciousness of freespirited Portland, the magnificent waterfront of San Francisco and the captivating French Quarter of jazz-loving New Orleans. Each city adds its unique style to the grand patchwork that is America. The USA has made tremendous contributions to the arts. Georgia O'Keeffe's wild landscapes, Robert Rauschenberg's surreal collages, Alexander Calder's elegant mobiles and Jackson Pollock's drip paintings have entered the vernacular of 20th-century art. Chicago and New York have become veritable drawing boards for the great architects of the modern era. And from the soulful blues born in the Mississippi Delta to the bluegrass of Appalachia and Detroit's Motown sound – plus jazz, funk, hip-hop, country, and rock and roll – America has invented sounds integral to modern music.

There are 24 world heritage sites.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park (1995) Everglades National Park (1979) Grand Canyon National Park (1979) Great Smoky Mountains National Park (1983) Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (1987) Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek (1979, 1992, 1994) Mammoth Cave National Park (1981) Olympic National Park (1981) Redwood National and State Parks (1980) Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (1995) Yellowstone National Park (1978) Yosemite National Park (1984)

Papahānaumokuākea (2010)

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK

Living in a time of constant technological advances, it can be easy to forget that we owe a lot to the genius of those who came before us.

Thousands of years ago, some of the brightest minds in human history developed ideas and innovations that changed the world. Whether we realise it or not, we still use the products of their creativity today. During an era of myths and legends, Ancient Europe also saw huge advances in fields like medicine, mathematics, theatre, agriculture and urban design. Across the continent are sites that still stand as testaments to the incredible ingenuity of ancient civilisations. From the temples at the heart of the first Olympic Games to the birth of modern medicine. There are ancient theatres where drama entertained the crowds millennia ago, and frontier cities where visitors can explore the same streets that centurions once marched along. For the royalty of Europe, power was displayed in many ways. They showed their wealth in grand palaces and their strength in imposing castles. They demonstrated their sophistication and prestige through their decadent parks and gardens. Kings and queens found the most talented botanists in the world to design their parks, while emperors and empresses sent their own experts on missions to exotic lands to find new species to plant. This rivalry started a wave of royal gardens created across Europe, each attempting to be bigger and better than the last. It also led to the discovery of rare plants and the protection of threatened ones. What began as a symbol of prestige became a scientific marvel.

WORLD HERITAGE WEEK