UNESCO World Heritage Sites
UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency that promotes peace and security by encouraging cooperation in the areas of education, the arts, sciences, and culture. It is a lofty goal, and it has been going strong since 1945. The organization has come to celebrate the best in mankind’s advances, our shared histories, and the impact we can have on our futures. This page focuses on the sites that UNESCO recognizes for their significance, and they enjoy legal protections via an international convention. Read through the pages below to find out more about these incredible sites and the impact they have had, not only on their own countries but worldwide. You may recognize quite a few (such as the famous and enigmatic Stonehenge above)!
UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Europe
It would be impossible to start any page about UNESCO sites without leading with magnificent Italy, which boasts a greater number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the world. With 51 designated cultural and natural landmarks, it makes up more than 5% of UNESCO’s global list. From the Dolomites and the historic centers of Florence and Rome to Pompeii (pictured) and the Amalfi Coast, the Italian sites are ideal for anyone seeking history, art, and culture.
Below, you will find additional links to European countries with rich cultural heritages that are recognized and celebrated by UNESCO. Explore each page and put together your dream European vacation at Tripmasters!
UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Africa & the Middle East
The Middle East is a loosely defined region brimming with history, wealth, and cultural heritage … along with an impressive list of sites on the World Heritage register. The region is generally agreed upon to include parts of Asia and Africa such as Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Turkey .. and more! This region boasts so many diverse cultures and outstanding sites that spread throughout different countries that we have gathered some favorites for you here!
Egypt is home to what is easily one of the world’s most recognizable UNESCO sites – the Pyramid Fields (from Giza to Dahshur). Visit famous Cairo (Giza is less than an hour from the city) and make time to see these impressive ancient feats of engineering – among other nearby marvels!
UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Asia and the Pacific
China has a long and storied history, and, as such, has a significant amount of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural monuments. One of the most famous sites is The Great Wall of China, near Beijing. The longest wall in the world stretching for over 5,500 miles through the rugged countryside, deserts, and mountains begins in Shanhaiguan Pass in the east and ends in Jiayuguan Pass in the west.
Abundant in culture, India was home to some of the oldest civilizations on earth, seeing the surge of empires and being the birthplace of several religions that are still growing today. After the latest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, India has 40 World Heritage Sites, and that makes India the 6th largest number of World Heritage Sites in the world! There are 32 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed property in the 40 UNESCO Sites in India.
Beautiful Japan counts a total of 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 20 cultural ones and 5 natural ones. With incredible mountains and remote islands, ancient shrines and castles, and traditional cultural experiences, there is something for everyone who visits.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Americas
More to Explore: The world is a fascinating place, and there is no shortage of marvels to check out. Below we have gathered some additional options we think you will enjoy exploring – From totally unique sights and natural wonders to impressive feats of engineering!
