The International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, is celebrated annually on April 18. This day is critical in raising awareness about the richness and diversity of various heritage sites around the world. The theme for 2021 was “Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures”.
Origins and Purpose of World Heritage Day
Established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1983, the day is devoted to spreading consciousness about heritage among global communities. It underscores the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage sites for future generations.
UNESCO’s Role and the Concept of World Heritage Sites
A World Heritage Site is a place designated by UNESCO for its extraordinary cultural or physical significance. UNESCO maintains the list of World Heritage Sites through the international ‘World Heritage Programme’ which it administers. The notion of preserving and protecting these sites is embodied in an international treaty, the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted in 1972.
Indian Legacy: World Heritage Sites in India
India is home to 38 World Heritage Sites as recognized by UNESCO. These include 30 cultural sites such as the Ajanta Caves, Fatehpur Sikri, Hamm’s monuments, and the Mountain Railways of India. There are also seven natural sites, comprising Kaziranga, Manas, and Nanda Devi National Parks. Recently, Jaipur City was added to the list in 2019 as the 38th site under the culture category. Moreover, India has one mixed classification site, Khangchendzonga National Park.
About UNESCO: History and Major Initiatives
Founded in 1945, UNESCO aims to develop the “intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind” to establish lasting peace. Based in Paris, France, it has launched multiple initiatives including the Man and Biosphere Programme, World Heritage Programme, Global Geopark Network, Network of Creative Cities, and Atlas of World Languages in Danger.
ICOMOS: Conservation Advocates
ICOMOS is a global non-governmental organization affiliated with UNESCO, headquartered in Paris, France. Its mission is centered on promoting the conservation, protection, use, and enhancement of monuments, building complexes, and sites. As an Advisory Body to the World Heritage Committee, it reviews nominations for cultural world heritage and ensures the preservation of these properties. Established in 1965, ICOMOS is a product of conversations between architects, historians, and international experts that began in the early twentieth century, ultimately resulting in the adoption of the Venice Charter in 1964.
