UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. UNESCO designates World Heritage Sites worldwide for having cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance. Today, there are over 1100 sites across the globe. 

A World Heritage Site is a landmark that is legally protected under the international convention UNESCO. Many attractions are open to visitors, and some are also in danger.  

Part of UNESCO’s charter is to preserve the natural, cultural, and historic sites to allow everyone to visit, enjoy, and learn from them. Many countries have a long list of sites that combine several elements of cultural heritage criteria, ranging from majestic natural beauty (like the Grand Canyon National Park, USA) to important architectural and artistic history (the Historic City of Salzburg Austria, Gaudi’s works in Barcelona or Cultural Landscape in Sintra Portugal). 

All of the UNESCO Heritage sites reflect the rich history, and hence, they need to be preserved at all costs. When we travel, we must practice sustainable tourism by respecting local culture and customs. Let’s leave no trace – litter or damage when we visit these destinations (no any destination for that matter). It is essential to continue to visit sites and contribute to the local economy. 

We book guided tours with locals (usually walking tours) to learn more about the site and support local businesses. Any time we visit and pay for a ticket, we contribute to the site’s repair and renovation.

You can also donate to various UNESCO sites and projects to help support the cause and preserve our heritage!

we can work together to “encourage international cooperation in the conservation of our world’s cultural and natural heritage” to preserve our world for ourselves and future generations.

UNESCO’s World Heritage site