#unesco cultural landmarks

[triptourbangladesh]

Somapura Mahavihara: The Heart of Buddhist Monasticism

 Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Paharpur stands as a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of the region and attracts history enthusiasts, pilgrims, and travelers from around the globe. Whether you’re planning a Bangladesh UNESCO World Heritage Tour or simply seeking an immersive journey into the past, Paharpur is a must-visit destination.

[paramedicabroad]

Kronborg Castle

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the majestic Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled on the picturesque shores of Denmark. Join us as we journey through the rich history, architectural grandeur, and cultural significance of this iconic fortress that has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries.

In 2000, Kronborg Castle was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its exceptional universal value and cultural significance. This prestigious designation honors the castle's unique blend of architectural excellence, historical importance, and artistic influence, ensuring its preservation for future generations to admire and explore.

Perched on the northeastern tip of the island of Zealand, Kronborg Castle stands as a symbol of Denmark's rich cultural heritage and maritime power. With its imposing ramparts, elegant spires, and strategic location overlooking the Øresund Strait, this magnificent Renaissance fortress has played a central role in Danish history since its construction in the early 15th century.

Kronborg Castle's fame extends far beyond Denmark's borders, thanks in part to its association with William Shakespeare's renowned tragedy, Hamlet. Inspired by the castle's atmospheric setting, Shakespeare immortalized Kronborg as the fictional Elsinore, forever linking the fortress to one of the greatest literary works in history.

As you step through the gates of Kronborg Castle, you'll be transported back in time to an era of kings, queens, and courtly intrigue. Marvel at the castle's impressive Renaissance architecture, from its towering turrets and fortified walls to its opulent chambers and ornate ballrooms, each telling a tale of Denmark's royal past.

Throughout its history, Kronborg Castle served as a formidable fortress, protecting the kingdom of Denmark from foreign invaders and asserting its dominance over the strategic Øresund Strait. From its commanding position overlooking the sea, the castle played a vital role in controlling maritime trade and safeguarding Danish sovereignty.

Today, Kronborg Castle continues to enchant visitors with its rich tapestry of cultural events and festivals. From theatrical performances of Hamlet in the castle's atmospheric courtyard to vibrant medieval markets and music concerts, there's always something exciting happening within the castle's storied walls, offering a glimpse into Denmark's vibrant cultural scene.

Beyond its historic interiors, Kronborg Castle invites you to explore its sprawling grounds and scenic surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the castle ramparts for panoramic views of the Øresund Strait, wander through the castle's lush gardens and courtyards, or venture into the underground casemates and dungeons for a spine-tingling experience.

So come, dear travelers, and immerse yourself in the history, beauty, and intrigue of Kronborg Castle. Whether you're admiring its architectural splendor, delving into its royal past, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the Danish coast, you're sure to be captivated by the timeless charm and UNESCO World Heritage status of this iconic Danish landmark. 🏰🇩🇰

[cruiseandtravel]

Exploring Hagia Sophia: A Journey Through History And Beauty

Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, stands as a magnificent testament to the city’s rich and diverse history. Known as Ayasofya in Turkish, this architectural wonder has been a church, a mosque, and a museum, and today it serves as an active mosque. Its story is as fascinating as its breathtaking design, making it a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. A Brief…

[holidaymyplanet]

Step into history and culture with these top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that offer breathtaking architecture and stories from around the world. From ancient ruins to iconic landmarks, these destinations are must-visits for travel enthusiasts. Discover the full list now!

[traveleventandnews]

Discover China: Top 10 Fascinating Facts About the Land of the Dragon

Discover China: Top 10 Fascinating Facts About the Land of the Dragon China is a country of immense beauty, rich culture, and groundbreaking innovation. As one of the most visited destinations in the world, it continues to captivate travelers with its ancient history and modern advancements. If you’re curious about this incredible country, here are the top 10 fascinating facts about China that…

[thefreedomchasers]

Your Complete Guide To Visiting Chichén Itzá Mexico (2023)

One of the activities that stuck out the most on our recent trip to Mexico was visiting Chichen Itza (chee-chen eet-sah). We love diving into the culture and history of the countries we visit and Mayan culture was one we were super excited to learn about. There are so many great Mayan ruins in Mexico you can visit, by far the most popular being Chichen Itza. Whether you are visiting Cancun or the…

[mashkara45]

Tonight russia attacked the historic center of Odesa with ballistic missiles (again). Damaged museums, philharmonic, people’s houses. Bristol Hotel suffered the most damage. Architectural monument, built over 125 years ago, survived WWII, but not “great russian culture”. The historical site of Odesa is protected by UNESCO (as if it means something).

russia gradually destroys beautiful European city i love so much. That’s the only thing barbarians are capable of: destruction.

russia bombs Ukrainian cities daily. It targets civilians, critical infrastructure, churches and historic landmarks.

PS: There were so many explosions, my cats are horrified; every time i tried to feed them, there was another strike. One of my cats threw up because of stress.

Do you know how much time we have to get to safety during ballistic attack? 2-3 minutes (not that there were safe places to begin with: for example, in today’s attack a woman was injured while hiding in a bomb shelter).

Idk why I’m writing this, no one gives a fuck anyway.

PS2: that’s how the Bristol Hotel used to look:

[tripgurugo]

[no-passaran]

In the weeks since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip have killed more than 15,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's health ministry, and destroyed thousands of homes in the territory.

And there have also been tremendous losses to the region's ancient and globally significant cultural heritage. The region was a hub for commerce and culture under Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Byzantine rule. It remained influential for centuries thereafter.

A recent survey by the group Heritage for Peace details the damage done so far to more than 100 of these landmarks in Gaza since the start of the present conflict.

The casualties include the Great Omari Mosque, one of the most important and ancient mosques in historical Palestine; the Church of Saint Porphyrius, thought to be the third oldest church in the entire world; a 2,000-year-old Roman cemetery in northern Gaza excavated only last year; and the Rafah Museum, a space in southern Gaza which was dedicated to teaching about the territory's long and multi-layered heritage — until it was hammered by airstrikes early on in the conflict. (...)

"If this heritage be no more in Gaza, it will be a big loss of the identity of the people in Gaza," said Isber Sabrine, president of Heritage for Peace, in an interview with NPR. (...)

"The people in Gaza, they have the right to keep and to save this heritage, to tell the history, the importance of this land," he said.

The 1954 Hague Convention, agreed to by Palestinians and Israelis, is supposed to safeguard landmarks from the ravages of war. But landmarks in Gaza have been destroyed by Israeli strikes in earlier rounds of fighting. Dozens of sites, including the now-obliterated Great Omari Mosque, suffered damage in 2014. A report by UNESCO, the United Nations body that designates and protects World Heritage sites, cites further destruction to cultural and historic sites in Gaza in 2021. (...)

Destruction of historical sites and other cultural sites is part of genocide, it's the destruction of the proof of a people's relationship to the land and a horrible emotional blow at the community. UNESCO must act immediately against Israel's destruction of Palestinian heritage, and every country and international organism must expel Israel and impose sanctions to make the genocide and apartheid end.

[dontforgetukraine]

A historical landmark built in the constructivist style and the symbol of Kharkiv, known as the Derzhprom, was hit by Russian glide bombs. It was the first modern skyscraper to be built in the Soviet Union. It survived WWII, but not Russia.

It had been added to UNESCO's list of cultural property under enhanced protection. But that doesn't do shit to protect against Russian bombs.

Just another bullet point in history of Russia destroying Ukraine's history and culture.

Oh yeah, side note, the publisher Bloomsbury Books thought it best to make the Derzhprom the cover of a book about "russian cinema".

Nata Druhak: "…this book highlights the often overlooked continuities between the late-Imperial and early-Soviet periods of cinema“ If you write about the periods of the Russian Empire or the Soviet Union, what is the point in simplifying it to „Russian“? It is just misleading. Contemporary Russia can not imagine itself without Ukraine and its culture — the reason why it started the war. The British and other Western scholars helps it to win it, at least in the minds of their readers.

[maiochiruhanabiraaa]

Seville's Heartbeat (Pablo Gavi.)

Summary: Gavi proudly introduces his girlfriend, Y/N, to Seville's rich culture through historic landmarks, local cuisine, and flamenco. Their journey culminates at the Feria de Abril, where Y/N joins in the festivities, deepening their bond and beginning their shared exploration of Seville's traditions.

Gavi had always been proud of his hometown, Seville, with its rich history and vibrant culture.

When he met Y/N, his foreign girlfriend, he couldn't wait to show her everything that made Seville special.

One sunny morning, Gavi took Y/N on a stroll through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old town. The air was filled with the scent of orange blossoms as they passed by centuries-old buildings adorned with intricate Moorish architecture.

"This is the Real Alcázar," Gavi explained, pointing to the majestic palace ahead.

"It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the gardens are absolutely stunning."

Y/N was captivated by the beauty of the palace and its lush gardens, where peacocks roamed freely among the fountains and orange trees.

She took countless photos, wanting to remember every detail.

As they continued their walk, they stumbled upon a bustling market in Plaza del Salvador.

The aroma of freshly baked bread and grilled meats wafted through the air, tempting them to sample traditional Andalusian delicacies.

"This is where locals come to shop for fresh produce and enjoy tapas," Gavi said, ordering a plate of jamón ibérico and manchego cheese for them to share. Y/N savored the flavors, delighted by the authenticity of the food.

In the evening, Gavi surprised Y/N with tickets to a flamenco show at a small, intimate tablao.

The passionate music and intricate dance moves left Y/N spellbound, her heart racing with the rhythm of the castanets.

"This is flamenco," Gavi whispered, his eyes fixed on the stage.

"It's more than just a dance; it's a way of expressing emotions and telling stories."

Y/N nodded, understanding the intensity and passion behind the performance. She could feel the energy reverberating through the room, connecting her to centuries of Andalusian culture.

On their final day together, Gavi took Y/N to experience the Feria de Abril, Seville's famous spring fair.

The fairgrounds were alive with color, filled with hundreds of casetas (decorated tents) where families gathered to eat, drink, and dance sevillanas.

"This is our most cherished tradition," Gavi said, leading Y/N into a caseta where his friends and family awaited them.

They were welcomed warmly, and Y/N was introduced to everyone as Gavi's girlfriend from abroad.

Throughout the day, they indulged in traditional dishes like paella and churros, and Y/N even tried on a colorful flamenco dress, joining in the dancing with newfound friends.

As the sun set over the fairgrounds, Gavi and Y/N sat together, savoring the moment.

"Thank you for sharing all of this with me," Y/N said, leaning against Gavi's shoulder.

Gavi smiled, knowing that he had given Y/N a glimpse into the heart and soul of Seville.

"There's so much more to explore," he said softly, his hand finding hers.

And as they watched fireworks light up the night sky, they knew that their adventure together was only just beginning.

[scotianostra]

4th March 1890 saw the opening of the Forth Rail Bridge or to give it the correct title The Forth Bridge.

Before 1890 the only direct route between Queensferry and North Queensferry in the east of Scotland was the ferry across the Firth of Forth. The crossing was slow and often dangerous and the four ferries, Queen Margaret, Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots and Sir William Wallace, were sometimes prevented from sailing by the weather.

When the railways arrived a ferry further downstream, from Granton to Burntisland, was used to transport goods from Edinburgh to Fife. But a more efficient means of crossing was required and so Thomas Bouch designed a suspension bridge.

Work started on the first pier at Inchgarvie but it was abandoned after another structure by Bouch of a similar design, the Tay Bridge, collapsed in 1879. A new design by John Fowler and Benjamin Baker, incorporating three double cantilevers, was commissioned and work commenced in 1883.

Over the course of the next seven years almost 51,000 Tons of steel was used in the construction of the Forth Bridge (or Forth Rail Bridge as it is often known). On 4 March 1890 the bridge was officially opened by the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) who drove in the last of the 6,500,000 rivets. The total cost of the project was £3,200,000 and at least 57 lives.

Three 100m tall towers support the 2.5km structure and the two track railway is carried at a height of 48.2m above the Firth of Forth. With main spans of 521m, the Forth Bridge was, at the time of its construction, the world’s largest cantilever bridge. To this day it still ranks second.

Last year the bridge became the sixth Scottish landmark to be awarded Unesco World Heritage Site status.Scotland's other World Heritage Sites are New Lanark, St Kilda, the Old and New Towns in Edinburgh, Neolithic Orkney and the Antonine Wall.

The award puts it alongside the Pyramids of Egypt, the great Wall of China and the Sydney Opera House in terms of cultural significance.

[paramedicabroad]

Palace of Westminster & Westminster Abbey

In the bustling heart of London, where history meets modernity, lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site that defines the city’s skyline and its spirit: the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, and St. Margaret’s Church. Together, these architectural marvels embody the political, religious, and cultural history of the United Kingdom and stand as a testament to over a thousand years of British heritage.

In 1987, UNESCO recognized the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, and St. Margaret’s Church as a World Heritage Site for their outstanding universal value. They symbolize the interplay of political and religious power, architectural innovation, and cultural significance.

Perched on the northern bank of the River Thames, the Palace of Westminster has served as the seat of the UK Parliament since the 13th century. Its current Gothic Revival architecture, designed by Charles Barry and adorned with intricate details by Augustus Pugin, rose from the ashes of a devastating fire in 1834.

The iconic Big Ben (officially known as the Elizabeth Tower) is a symbol of democracy recognized worldwide. Its resonant chimes echo through the city, a constant reminder of the enduring legacy of British governance.

Just steps away from the Palace, Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a cornerstone of British religious and royal traditions. Founded in 960 AD, it has witnessed countless historic moments, from the coronation of monarchs to royal weddings and funerals.

Stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule. The Poets’ Corner pays homage to literary greats like Shakespeare and Dickens, while the elaborate tombs of kings, queens, and statesmen narrate centuries of history. The soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stained-glass windows are a feast for the eyes, making it one of the most awe-inspiring churches in the world.

Often overshadowed by its grand neighbors, St. Margaret’s Church is a quaint and charming piece of the UNESCO site. Built in the 12th century, it served as the parish church for the House of Commons and remains a serene place of worship.

The site reflects pivotal moments in British history, from the signing of the Magna Carta to the development of parliamentary democracy, making it not just a landmark of London but of global importance.

The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey aren’t just historic landmarks; they are living symbols of the UK’s identity. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply a traveler eager to immerse yourself in the essence of London, this UNESCO site offers a journey through time that will stay with you forever. 🏛️ ✨ 🇬🇧

[feckcops]

What does it mean to erase a people – a nation, culture, identity? In Gaza, we are beginning to find out

“Earlier this month, Gaza’s oldest mosque was destroyed by Israeli airstrikes. The Omari mosque was originally a fifth century Byzantine church, and was an iconic landmark of Gaza: 44,000 sq ft of history, architecture and cultural heritage. But it was also a live site of contemporary practice and worship. A 45-year-old Gazan told Reuters that he had been ‘praying there and playing around it all through my childhood‘. Israel, he said, is ‘trying to wipe out our memories’.

“St Porphyrius church, the oldest in Gaza, also dating back to the fifth century and believed to be the third oldest church in the world, was damaged in another strike in October. It was sheltering displaced people, among them members of the oldest Christian community in the world, one that dates back to the first century. So far, more than 100 heritage sites in Gaza have been damaged or levelled. Among them are a 2,000-year-old Roman cemetery and the Rafah Museum, which was dedicated to the region’s long and mixed religious and architectural heritage.

“As the past is being uprooted, the future is also being curtailed. The Islamic University of Gaza, the first higher education institution established in the Gaza Strip in 1978, and which trains, among others, Gaza’s doctors and engineers, has been destroyed, along with more than 200 schools. Sufian Tayeh, the rector of the university, was killed along with his family in an airstrike. He was the Unesco chair of physical, astrophysical and space sciences in Palestine. Other high-profile academics who have been killed include the microbiologist Dr Muhammad Eid Shabir, and the prominent poet and writer Dr Refaat Alareer, whose poem, If I must die, was widely shared after his death ...

“As the ability to tell these stories publicly comes under attack, so do the private rituals of mourning and memorialisation. According to a New York Times investigation, Israel ground forces are bulldozing cemeteries in their advance on the Gaza Strip, destroying at least six. Ahmed Masoud, a British Palestinian writer from Gaza, posted a picture of him visiting his father’s grave, alongside a video of its ruins. ‘This is the graveyard in Jabalia camp,’ he wrote, where his father was buried. ‘I went to visit him in May. The Israeli tanks have now destroyed it, and my dad’s grave has gone. I won’t be able to visit or talk to him again.’

“A memory gap is forming. Libraries and museums are being levelled, and what is lost in the documents that have burned joins a larger toll of record-keeping. Meanwhile, the scale of the killings is so large that entire extended families are disappearing. The result is like tearing pages out of a book. Dina Matar, a professor at Soas University of London, told the Financial Times that ‘such loss results in the erasure of shared memories and identities for those who survive. Remembering matters. These are important elements when you want to put together histories and stories of ordinary lives’ ...

“This is what it would look like, to erase a people. In short, to void the architecture of belonging that we all take so much for granted so that, no matter how many Gazans survive, there is, over time, less and less to bind them together into a valid whole. This is what it would look like, when you deprive them of telling their story, of producing their art, of sharing in music, song and poetry, and of a foundational history that lives in their landmarks, mosques, churches, and even in their graves.”

[jimrichardsonng]

Scotland Fix of the Day: By now many of you may be dreaming of a Scotland trip next year. Just planning for such a trip can be a strong antidote to the darkening days of winter coming upon us. And many of you will be hoping to find some undiscovered gem of a destination, someplace unspoiled and untrammeled. So I thought I might offer a couple of possible locations that really are off the beaten track and for the first one I can’t think of a better adventure than trying to get out to St. Kilda. And getting to these island forty miles out in the Atlantic, beyond the Outer Hebrides, can be trying. Weather is a big obstacle and most boat tour operators will want you to book two consecutive days in order to have a chance of making it on one of them. (I once traveled out with a group of friends who had been coming back every year for nine years and hadn’t made it yet — until that day.) Boats depart from both Lewis and Harris and there is now a tour that leaves from the Isle of Skye. Expect the trip to be at least three hours. But if you make it you’ll be among only about 2,000 lucky visitors — per year! And you’ll be warmly welcomed by the National Trust for Scotland rangers who watch after this double UNESCO Wold Heritage Site treasure, honored for both its cultural heritage and its wildlife. You could say the two are connected: the final abandonment in 1930 by the residents who had survived there for millennia contributed to making this remote archipelago an even more inviting place for hundreds of thousands of seabirds, prime amongst them being huge colonies of puffins and gannets. It’s spectacular. My photographic work for National Geographic has actually taken me to St. Kilda several times (I’m really quite fortunate) and every time has been hugely memorable, a landmark travel experience. So if you decide to have a go at St. Kilda I won’t kid you: it’s not going to be easy. But St. Kilda is the very definition of “off the beaten track.” #scotland #stkilda #bestofscotland #hiddenscotland #natgeo #lindbladexpeditions #nationalTrustforScotland #scotland_highlights#ig_scotland #visitscotland #scotlandgreatshots #scotland_greatshots #igersscotland #unlimitedscot — view on Instagram https://ift.tt/GApc5Ej

[rabbitcruiser]

International Jazz Day 

Join your community in appreciating and recognizing the rich culture and heritage of jazz. Visit a local jazz club, or revisit some of the greatest musicians in history.

International Jazz Day is a beautiful time to celebrate the gift of music and to come together as a community. It’s a chance to listen to a variety of musicians and hear their talents live all around the world.

Learning more about the day will help any musical enthusiast to appreciate all the benefits of listening to jazz. Music lovers from around the world will gather to attend jazz festivals, parties, and events to help celebrate the day and this specific type of music. Now is the perfect opportunity to take up a musical instrument such as the trumpet, saxophone, piano or clarinet and start to make music so one can understand what all the hype is about.

International Jazz Day highlights the ability for jazz to unite people from all walks of life and draw together folks from around the globe. No one is left out, as this day brings together artists, schools, communities, historians, academics, and jazz aficionados to raise awareness around this type of music and educate the public about the roots, impact, and future of jazz. There’s a deep-rooted message attached to this day of celebration, such as reinforcing international cooperation and communication.

It brings to light the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding through one of the best ways possible, music. The power of the music will be apparent when participants view people of all backgrounds, forgetting about their differences and joining together to celebrate jazz. Any adverse circumstances from the past or present are suddenly forgotten or pushed aside, and people begin to focus on friendship, freedom, hope, and dignity instead.

The day itself is intended to promote peace, diversity, respect among different cultures, and highlight the need for human rights and dignity. The music itself addresses the desire for eliminating discrimination and promoting the freedom of expression. Youth are also encouraged to participate by enacting change and helping to foster gender equality. One will have the chance to experience how much life and love emerges when the day kicks off, and musicians from all over begin to jam and play their music.

History of International Jazz Day

It all began in 2011 when the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization declared International Jazz Day as an opportunity to give recognition to jazz music and state its role to unite people all around the globe. It’s been going strong ever since and people look forward to this day each year when music lovers from around the world can share in the experience of listening to and making jazz music.

The idea itself emerged from jazz pianist and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock. Together, the UNESCO Director-General and Hancock chair the event and ensure people from all over come out to participate in the celebration each year. Cities such as Paris, New Orleans, and New York were some of the first to begin to educate the public on the event and draw excitement to Jazz Day.

The Host City goes as far as to organize an All-Star Global Concert which brings together over two-dozen jazz musicians from all parts of the world in or around a historical landmark. It’s interesting to know that the popularity of the day has grown immensely over the years. Now, nearly 200 countries participate in International Jazz Day.

You can visit just about any location and hear and experience jazz music at its finest. You’ll witness artists and onlookers expressing themselves in their own unique and individual way. Cape Town, South Africa is the Host City for 2020, so one should make a note of this if he or she wants to travel and see some of the best musicians perform their music live. Not only will there be music present at the event, but organizers are also planning an extensive educational and community outreach program for people to participate in and as a way for them to expand their knowledge.

How to Celebrate International Jazz Day

There are many ways for how people around the world can celebrate International Jazz Day. There is no right or wrong way to go about it, and all communities may have their unique take and twist on the day. For example, there may be live concerts and events to attend, and people might want to host their own parties.

Not only are there concerts and events taking place internationally, but many will also hold jam sessions and educational workshops and conferences, as well as organize community outreach programs. Anyone can locate and access jazz educational materials from the International Jazz Day website to help them run their event. The public shouldn’t be afraid to insert themselves in the conversation and start an event or discussion around the topic to help create awareness around the day.

The common denominator is that there will be a lot of jazz music to be heard and played. It’s an opportunity for those unfamiliar with this type of music to get more acquainted with it and learn about its roots and history. One can witness people of all ages and backgrounds moving to the music and enjoying themselves while the performers work hard to put on a show that anyone can appreciate.

International Jazz Day is undoubtedly a celebration to be aware of and take part in if a person is looking to expand their horizons and musical knowledge. There’s so much to see and take in around the globe when this day rolls around. There will be no choice but to participate in some sort of event that’s happening in the area. It’s a time to appreciate the musicians and their talents and bring people together to experience this particular type of music without any judgment.

Go ahead and give one of these events or jam sessions a try and see for oneself how engaging jazz music is and witness its ability to bring together people from across the globe and find common ground. Let this year be the year that people let their guards down and allow themselves to experience the day by listening, conversing, and moving their bodies to the wonderful sounds of jazz.

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