History and Background of World Heritage Sites

History and background of World
Heritage Sites

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................3
Discussing history and background of World Heritage Sites................................................3
Explaining reasons for preserving World Heritage Sites.......................................................5
Explaining negative consequences of preserving Heritage Sites...........................................6
CONCLUSION..........................................................................................................................6
REFERENCES...........................................................................................................................7

INTRODUCTION
The concept of World Heritage was initiated after the end of World War II when one
cultural monument which was immense importance, that is, Ramses II temple at Abu Simbel
was destructed during the construction of Aswan dam in Egypt in 1959. These heritage sites
are cultural or natural sites or monuments which are regarded as of ‘Outstanding Universal
Value’ and are listed on World Heritage List by the committee. The World Heritage Sites
provides instant international recognition. The report will discuss history and background of
heritage sites along with its categorization. Report will also present the process, selection and
nomination of sites with example. Further, it will also introduce the importance for
preserving these sites with the help of example. There will be also be explanation about
negative consequences of preserving heritage sites along with solutions to reduce negative
impact.
Discussing history and background of World Heritage Sites
World Heritage Sites are cultural sites or monuments or objects listed under UNESCO
(United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage List. It
gives a framework for cooperation on international level in order to preserve and protect the
natural resources and cultural treasures across the world (Hosseini, Stefaniec and Hosseini,
2021). The primary boost of preserving these heritage sites was the construction of Aswan
high dam. On 16th November 1972, UNESCO came in front and adopted a convention to
solve the issue to international community and the end result was the largest archeological
rescue operation. ‘Outstanding Universal Value’ can be defined as the objects of cultural and
natural importance which are exceptional and transcends national boundaries and are of
utmost importance for present and future generations.
Different categories of World Heritage Sites
 Cultural: Cultural sites are those sites that comprises of various historic buildings and
town sites, all archaeological sites, monumental sculptures and painting works. There
are total 1121 monuments across 167 countries listed under UNESCO list.
 Natural: These natural sites are confined to natural areas which are perfect examples
of Earth’s record of life or for its geological processes, secondly, which are wonderful
example of ecological & biological processes of evolution, thirdly, which contain
natural beauty, rare or unique, and lastly provides habitats of endangered animals or