Cultural Heritage

Delve into the rich tapestry of humanity’s cultural heritage, encompassing arts, history, and beyond.

With over 3,800 distinct cultures worldwide, as cataloged by anthropologists and recorded in Price’s Atlas of Ethnographic Societies—a number potentially underestimated—we can only begin to fathom the profound influence of these myriad cultural legacies across the globe.

Cultural heritage, as defined by Wikipedia, comprises the tangible and intangible assets inherited by a society from past generations. Not all remnants of the past qualify as “heritage”; rather, heritage emerges through societal selection.

This expansive term encompasses a vast array of elements, including customs, beliefs, rituals, arts, music, and more, shaping culture and behavior. It extends to practices related to the natural environment, religious and scientific traditions, language, cuisine, and even cyber cultures in the digital realm. Emerging cultures of the present are poised to become the heritage of the future.

Below, discover a diverse array of cultural heritage assets, ranging from the architectural influences of Indigenous communities to the impact on fashion, cuisine, and beyond. These narratives also shed light on historical events, viewed through the lens of contemporary society.

  • Women's,History,Month,Photo,With,Antique,Books.

    One of my all-time favorite quotes reads, “Well behaved women rarely make history!” The women in this article didn’t necessarily behave badly. But they certainly stepped out of their comfort zones. From a self-taught folk artist to a heroin of the Underground Railroad to a determined wife, each of these women brought something unique to the world.

  • S'edav Va'aki Museum Entrance ©Julie Diebolt Price

    Few events capture the vibrancy of Indigenous artistry and heritage, like the Annual Indian Market at S'edav Va'aki Museum in Phoenix, Arizona. As a professional photographer and seasoned travel writer, I'm always looking for authentic cultural experiences that tell a story—through people, places, and tradition.

  • Secrets of Ancient Olympia

    The next time you watch the extravaganza that is the modern Olympic Games, consider this: It all started with a simple footrace. To history lovers like me, the Sanctuary of Olympia — the religious site used for the ancient competitions — is almost as legendary as the games. The archaeological site of ancient Olympia is rich with history and littered with intriguing ruins, making it an irresistible stop on my road trip around the Peloponnese Peninsula. To add to the fun, ancient Olympia's history reads like a Hollywood script — full of drama, parties, and even one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Even in its ruined state, the site inspires awe.

  • history 684384 1920

    March is Women’s History Month. Celebrated in the UK, the USA, and Australia to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8th, this month highlights the contributions women have made to events in history and contemporary society.

  • Malta fishing port

    This may seem a little strange but Women’s History Month always has me thinking about travelling to Malta. It is the birthplace of my grandmother; my mother’s mother. Like many women in my family, Malta is small but feisty. And again like my family, it is filled with stories about strong women and great respect.

  • San Antonio Missions El Alamo

    The limestone buildings shimmer in the blazing Texas sun. A Franciscan friar emerges from the parish office behind the church. I briefly wonder whether he’s melting under his brown habit. I know I am, and I’m wearing shorts. Weather considerations aside, the sight conjures images of a once-bustling religious community. Brown-robed monks give religious instruction in Spanish and teach practical skills. Coahuiltecan Indians weave on the looms or hammer away in the smithy—an ordinary day at one of the San Antonio Missions in the 18th century.

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    New Orleans has been the backdrop of many dark chapters in American history, but perhaps none so shocking as the slave rebellion of 1811.  We will explore the history of America's largest slave revolt with author Daniel Rasmussen who organized his research in his book, American Uprising:  The Untold Story About America's Largest Slave Revolt.

  • R&B Benefit concert for The Children's Inn at NIH at The Fillmore Banner with WF discount

    Attention DMV! You're invited to join World Footprints on March 22, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. as Steve Smith and the Nakeds—a dynamic R&B powerhouse celebrated for their rich, soulful innovation—ignite the DMV with an unforgettable benefit concert in support of The Children's Inn at NIH. This isn’t just any concert—it’s a vibrant celebration of R&B’s enduring legacy and a heartfelt call to community. Plus, World Footprints is offering a 65% discount on General Admission tickets, all of which include an OPEN BAR!  

  • Explore Jax Core Tours with Yollie Copeland

    Yolanda ‘Yollie’ Copeland is a woman with a mission. The retired sheriff’s deputy, who moved to Jacksonville, Florida in 2013, is committed to making sure that the city’s rich Black history isn’t erased. She does it by tooling around town in an advertising-covered, low-speed electric vehicle, wearing a bright yellow shirt, shoes, and hat, and sharing her love for the area and the people who shaped it.

  • vintage 5969014 1920

    JEconomy Hall is an important institution in New Orleans that speaks about hidden history of free black brotherhood. If author Fatima Shaik’s father had not rescued the records and books from early Economy Hall meetings that lay in a dumpster, we may not have known of the hidden history of free Black people in New Orleans.

  • John Ware Restored Cabin in Dinosaur Provincial Park

    There’s no denying John Ware lived a legend-worthy life. Born into slavery in the American South, he rose far above his humble beginnings to become a Black cowboy with a successful career as a rancher in the Canadian province of Alberta. Throughout his journey, Ware faced racism, prejudice, and the numerous challenges that came from a white-dominated industry. John Ware overcame those obstacles as he managed thousands of cattle and horses for highly successful ranches, ultimately developing a ranch of his own. His renowned skills and experience in the industry, along with his remarkable character, earned him a solid place among the legends of the Canadian West.

  • Native American history discovered in Antelope Canyon X Photo Marni Paterson

    One of the best aspects of travel is stumbling on interesting stories. I discovered one highlighting Native American history during a photography tour of Antelope Canyon X with Taadidiin Tours. Antelope Canyon X is one of several slot canyons that inspire millions to visit the Navajo Nation near Page, Arizona, each year.