UNESCO World Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage site in Toledo Spain. Roman architecture
“A World Heritage site is a place on Earth that is of outstanding universal value to humanity, and as such, has been inscribed on the World Heritage List to be protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.”
– UNESCO
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is committed to identifying, preserving, and protecting sites of exceptional cultural and natural value worldwide. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins to architectural masterpieces and fragile ecosystems, represent humanity’s most treasured places and traditions. These sites are preserved not only for their intrinsic beauty but for the knowledge, history, and cultural significance they hold.
On this page, readers can explore a variety of articles that delve into the stories behind UNESCO World Heritage Sites and heritage trails across the globe. Learn about celebrated destinations like the historic temples of Angkor, the architectural wonders of Italy, and the vast wilderness of Yellowstone National Park. Discover how UNESCO is working to preserve intangible cultural heritage, such as traditional music, dance, and indigenous practices, to keep these vital traditions alive.
Our articles also spotlight World Heritage Sites currently in jeopardy due to climate change, urbanization, or conflict, examining the global efforts to protect these irreplaceable landmarks. Readers will find insightful guides, historical background, and travel tips that inspire responsible and respectful travel to UNESCO sites, fostering a deeper connection with our shared global heritage.
According to a study published in the journal Nature Communications, if you want to plan your next overseas adventure travel or luxury travel excursion to the sunny regions of the Mediterranean or simply set out to see some of the historical wonders of the world , you better do it now before the World Heritage Sites are either damaged or no longer exist due to climate change.
When we think of Japan we generally recall the unique Manga culture, cherry blossoms, bonsais, sushi and the list goes on. However, Japan’s samurai castles are unique architectural treasures that should not be overlooked and must be preserved for historic value.
For constant travellers airports are an unavoidable part of their world-exploring experience but it is not the most enjoyable part of traveling. Airports around the world are generally overcrowded, chaotic and stressful environments packed within a generic structure. However, there are a few airports throughout the former Soviet Union that are aesthetically and conceptually different. They are repurposed military bases that were used during WWII. The wooden airports in Russia are still mostly functional and surprisingly beautiful, however it takes a grain of courage to fly into such places. Solovetsky Islands For those seeking an adventurous trip to the Solovetsky Islands in Russia, an archipelago located at the White Sea, the Solovetsky Airport offers a beautify gateway to the destination. Visitors to the Solovetsky Islands can discover one of the most important holy cities for the Russian Orthodox Church. The UNESCO World Heritage site holds a 5th century Monastery built [...]
Darwin, the capital of Australian Northern Territory, is one of those places where people come for a visit and often decide to stay. Its diversity is fascinating and local atmosphere seems to always cheer up.
On July 24, 1911, American explorer and historian Hiram Bingham made one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century when he uncovered the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu.
World Footprints will talk to intrepid travelers, explore America's Natural Parks and endangered World Heritage Sites, and we'll pay a visit to the Philippines and Northern Florida. First, the Congo's Virunga National Park has been ensnared in bloody conflict for years but National Geographic Explorer correspondent, Justin Hall, discusses whether this vast natural resource can uplift the Congo's fortunes. This park is unique with its active chain of volcanoes and rich diversity of habitats that surpass those of any other African park Then, hear about what lies "Beyond the Horizon" with author and traveler Christopher Many, who has taken some unconventional means to traveler around the world. Also, we welcome back television personality and former Travel Channel host, Samantha Brown, who has joined forces with AARP to celebrate the centennial of the U.S. National Park Service. Finally, Dr. Mechtild Rossler, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Center joins World Footprints to discuss [...]
With summer looming, Andalucía should be on top of your potential holiday destinations. Located on the south of Spain, the Andalucía region is renowned for having the hottest average temperatures in Europe. It has a diverse landscape, with a mountainous region on one side and the Mediterranean coast on the other. It is easy to tour the entire region because most of the attractions are 2 to 4-hour-drive apart. Here are the top 6 cities in the south of Spain that should be on the top of your list. Malaga Malaga is the hometown of the world's renowned artist, Pablo Picasso. It’s no surprise that the city has several fascinating galleries and generates an artsy vibe. Historical sites are also in abundance, including the Moorish fortress of Alcazaba, the 11th-century Gibralfaro Castle, and the Roman theatre. The cuisine is just as good as the history and tradition in Malaga. Locals [...]
While jumping in with both feet might be too much of a stretch when it comes to a country where you don’t know the language, visiting Seoul is one of the best things you can do to broaden your horizons.
Nepal is one of the few countries in the world which can feel unspoiled by the effects of tourism. Immense and majestic in every way, it is also here that you will find the infamous Mount Everest but make no mistake; this isolated pocket in the mountains is popular for more than just adventure tours and hiking expeditions.
Despite its small size, South Korea packs a mighty punch with diverse tourism offerings that are set in beautiful surroundings. But within the capital city of Seoul, travelers are treated to journeys from South Korea’s ancient past to present time.
Today World Footprints will talk travel; specifically international travel and study abroad programs with Yahoo! Travel's Paula Froelich. Our conversation follows an invitation to the White House to participate in a travel summit focused on encouraging more travel, voluntourism and study-abroad opportunities for Americans.
The Caucasus has been attracting an increasing number of travelers recently, and Armenia is one of the major region draws. Local tourist traffic is expected to boom as the region’s heritage and cultural and natural riches are so overwhelming.
