Tag: World Heritage Site

UN votes to designate Jericho as World Heritage Site in Palestine, irking Israel

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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A UN conference voted on Sunday to list the ancient West Bank city of Jericho as a World Heritage Site in Palestine, a decision likely to anger Israel, which controls the territory and does not recognise a Palestinian state.

Jericho is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities on earth and is in a part of the Israeli-occupied West Bank that is administered by the internationally recognised Palestinian Authority.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the UN World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the auspices of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO.

Israel quit UNESCO in 2019, accusing it of being biased against it and of diminishing its connection to the Holy Land. Israel also objected to UNESCO’s acceptance of Palestine as a member state in 2011. But Israel remains a party to the World Heritage Convention, and it sent a delegation to the meeting in Riyadh.

Israel captured the West Bank, along with Gaza and east Jerusalem, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and cultural heartland of the Jewish people.

There have been no serious or substantive peace negotiations in over a decade, and Israel is currently led by the most nationalist and religious government in its history, making any move toward Palestinian statehood nearly unimaginable.

The modern city of Jericho is a major draw for tourism to the Palestinian territories, both because of its historical sites and proximity to the Dead Sea. In 2021, the Palestinian Authority unveiled major renovations to one of the largest mosaics in the Middle East, in a Jericho palace dating back to the 8th century.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

World Heritage Day 2023 headlines role of climate change in global culture

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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World Heritage Day is celebrated on April 18. The day aims to promote the importance of cultural heritage. The day raises awareness about the need to preserve historical sites across the globe. It offers an opportunity to inspire and encourage people, especially the youth, to appreciate and safeguard cultural heritage and historical sites for future generations.

UNESCO recognises that several world heritage sites have outstanding universal value for cultural or natural significance. These sites include several ancient ruins, historical monuments, natural landscapes, and some cultural practices as well.

ALSO READ | 7 wonders of the Modern World: UNESCO heritage sites you must see

Theme for 2023

This year’s theme for World Heritage Day 2023 is ‘Heritage Changes,’ which focuses on the crucial issue of climate action and its link to the preservation of cultural heritage.

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) claims that the theme of Heritage Changes also brings an opportunity to discuss and address gaps in learning about traditional knowledge systems in relation to tackling climate change. The theme also focuses on how to use cultural heritage to support protection of vulnerable communities while addressing the UN Decade of Action.

ALSO READ | Visva Bharati University to receive UNESCO Living Heritage designation

In the past, World Heritage Day has been celebrated with focus on various themes such as, ‘Cultural Heritage & Sustainable Tourism’ in 2017, ‘Heritage for Generations’ in 2018, and ‘Shared Cultures, Shared Heritage, Shared Responsibility’ in 2020.

History and significance

The concept of World Heritage Day was introduced in 1982 by the ICOMOS. Later, the UN General Assembly approved it in 1983 and April 18 was chosen to celebrate World Heritage Day to mark the anniversary of UNESCO’s adoption of the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1982.

World Heritage Day aims to increase awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage sites and monuments and about the need to protect it from damage or destruction due to natural disasters, human activities, or climate change.

ALSO READ | India’s heritage in peril: 24 centrally protected monuments missing

World heritage sites give a unique insight into the culture and culture of a region or country.

These sites are also popular tourist destinations which can generate income for people and help boost the local economy. Thus, the need to protect and preserve them is of utmost importance to ensure their continued existence for future generations.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

A weekend getaway to Alcazar Seville: A guide to exploring this magnificent palace

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Alcazar Seville, also known as the Royal Palace of Seville, is one of the most magnificent and historic buildings in Spain. Located in the heart of Seville, this stunning palace is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the city. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture aficionado, or just looking for a weekend getaway, Alcazar Seville has something for everyone.

Why Visit Alcazar Seville?

Alcazar Seville is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain for a reason. From its rich history to its stunning architecture, there are countless reasons to visit this incredible palace. Here are just a few:

• Alcazar Seville is a World Heritage Site, recognised for its unique blend of Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
• The palace has a rich history, dating back to the 13th Century, and has been the residence of many important figures, including Spanish monarchs and foreign rulers.
• Alcazar Seville is one of the best-preserved palaces in Spain, and its intricate design and stunning gardens make it a true work of art.

ALSO READ | The majestic hills of Himachal Pradesh: Exploring India’s best kept secret

Highlights

• The Patio de las Doncellas: This beautiful courtyard is the centerpiece of Alcazar Seville and is surrounded by intricate arches and ornate carvings.
• The Mudéjar Palace: This section of the palace is one of the best examples of Mudéjar architecture in Spain and is famous for its intricate tile work and stunning wooden ceilings.
• The Gardens: Alcazar Seville is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in Spain, complete with fountains, ponds, and stunning floral arrangements.
  • The Court of the Maidens, a series of interconnected patios, including the famous Courtyard of the Dolls, adorned with colourful tile work.
  • The King’s Hall, a beautiful Renaissance-style room with a painted ceiling and richly carved decor.

What to Do:

• • Take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and admire its architectural beauty.
  • Walk through the lush gardens, filled with exotic plants, fountains, and sculptures.
  • Visit the permanent exhibitions at the palace, which showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.

ALSO READ |  Discover the rich culture and history of Rajasthan: A journey through India’s largest state

FAQs

Q: How much time should I set aside for visiting the Alcazar?
A: You should plan to spend at least two hours visiting the palace and its grounds.

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit the Alcazar?
A: Yes, there is an admission fee. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Q: Are there guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, there are guided tours available in English.

The Alcazar of Seville is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful gardens, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just a beautiful day out, the Alcazar is the perfect place to spend a weekend in Seville.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Explained: How the Great Barrier Reef, victim of climate change, can be a solution

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The 2,300-km Great Barrier Reef has lost more than half of its corals as a consequence of rising ocean temperatures due to global warming. The reef also suffered two mass bleaching events in 2016 and 2017.

Given the damage, UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee had proposed that the Great Barrier Reef be put under ‘in danger’ category. However, the Australian government, on July 23, managed to avoid a downgrade of the Great Barrier Reef’s World Heritage status after a concerted lobbying effort by Canberra.

Now, the Australian government will have to submit an updated progress report in 2022. It is being said that Australia didn’t want the ‘in danger’ status for the Great Barrier Reef—which draws a huge tourist turnout every year—as it might affect the post-pandemic visitors.

But that doesn’t change the ground reality: Reef is now a grim region. Once teeming with vibrant corals, it has now become a lifeless washed-out wasteland.

Thus, the environmentalists call for ‘dramatic action’ to save the Great Barrier Reef.

Coral reefs and we are harming them

A 2014 study published in the journal Global Environmental Change estimated the social, cultural and economic value of coral reefs at the US $1 trillion. Despite covering less than 0.1 percent of the ocean floor, coral reefs harbour the highest biodiversity of any ecosystem globally.

Further, reefs provide protection against flooding and help the fishing and tourism industries. However, as a consequence of a global rise in temperatures, mass coral bleaching events have become more frequent.

Carbon dioxide absorbed into the ocean—due to industrialisation—impacts reef-building. Besides, increasing intensity of tropical storms and altered ocean circulation patterns also harm coral reefs.

Also Read | Explained: All you need to know about China’s green algae problem

How do degrading coral reefs impact marine ecosystems?

As stated earlier, coral reefs support biodiverse ecosystems. Thousands of marine animals—including some species of sea turtles, sea birds, starfish, fish, crabs, shrimps, jellyfish—depend on coral reefs for survival.

Coral reefs—found in over 100 countries and territories globally—also provide shelter to these species and protection from predators.

If coral reefs collapse, some of the already endangered marine species may face extinction.

What are we doing to save Australia’s coral reefs?

The International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI), a global partnership of more than 40 governments and more than 40 civil society organizations with coral reef expertise, has dedicated resources for tracking coral reef change.

The governments have pledged to ensure that any action they authorise, fund, or carry out doesn’t degrade the condition of coral reef ecosystems.

They have also agreed to develop and use better tools, or indicators, to measure the progress of their existing goals. Additionally, studies are being funded to ascertain the causes of coral reef deterioration.

How oceans and coral reefs can help us fight climate change?

Due to climate change, tropical cyclones have intensified. However, it has been found that coral reefs have the ability to soften the ocean’s fury by reducing a wave’s energy by up to 97 percent.

A 2014 study had concluded that coral reef restoration can be a cost-effective way to “decrease the hazards coastal communities face due to the combination of storms and sea-level rise.”

Another 2018 study has found that coral reefs can potentially save countries around the world $4 billion annually in flood protections. Reefs also play a huge role in protecting coastlines.

Meanwhile, oceans provide a great way to generate green energy through ocean winds, waves, and currents. The use of alternative energy sources can reduce greenhouse gas emissions while meeting electricity demand.

Also Read: American scientist Eunice Foote was the first to figure out climate change back in 1856

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Harappan-era city Dholavira inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Dholavira, a Harappan-era metropolis, in Gujarat has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the organisation said on Tuesday. “Dholavira: A Harappan City, in India, just inscribed on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List. Congratulations!” UNESCO tweeted.

The ongoing 44th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO has already given India a new world heritage site in the form of the Rudreswara/ Ramappa Temple in Telangana, which dates back to the 13th century. Gujarat so far has three world heritage sites Champaner near Pavagadh, Rani ki Vav in Patan and the historic city of Ahmedabad.

This session of the World Heritage Committee is being chaired from Fuzhou in China and is being held online. It started on July 16 and will end on July 31. The 44th session combines current work, and issues left outstanding since last year when the annual meeting was postponed due to COVID-19.

“It gives immense pride to share with my fellow Indians that #Dholavira is now the 40th treasure in India to be given @UNESCO’s World Heritage Inscription. Another feather in India’s cap as we now enter the Super-40 club for World Heritage Site inscriptions,” Culture Minister G Kishan Reddy said in a tweet.

Today is a proud day for India, especially for the people of Gujarat, he said. “Since 2014, India has added 10 new World Heritage sites – one-fourth of our total sites. This shows PM @narendramodi’s steadfast commitment in promoting Indian culture, heritage and the Indian way of life,” Reddy tweeted.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Hampi, ranked No. 2 in New York Times’ must-visit destinations, is now a luxury traveller’s paradise

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Google Hampi and what you get is a wide range of information about the UNESCO World Heritage Site — a surreal landscape of stunning ruins that pepper the seat of power of the Vijayanagar Empire, one of southern India’s biggest empires which ruled between 14th and 16th century; its 1600-odd temples, bazaars and palaces and its gigantic bulbous granite rocks, eroded by nature into surreal shapes.

Not to miss Hampi island or its backpackers haven, with a never-ending gaggle of cafes and open-air restaurants, and its popularity among adventure seekers who come looking for bouldering experiences. The splendid ancient metropolis was once home to traders and kings, warriors and priests. Today, it is known for its evocative ruins.

Yet, in more recent months, Hampi has begun its march towards an entirely new kind of identity — as a destination for luxury travellers from across the world. During my three days in the lost city which is much loved by heritage aficionados and backpackers, I met travellers seeking out local experiences, exploring farm-to-table dining and enjoying its abundant birdlife. Among them was Tim Hastings who owns a few restaurants in and around London and two organic farms in Canterbury. This was Hasting’s third time in India. “Hampi seemed way out and offbeat, but I am surprised to see it has several interesting experiences besides the temples and ruins, of course. We have had picnics organised by the riverside, we have been on coracle rides, enjoyed a traditional meal, visited a sloth bear sanctuary and also seen an interesting museum exhibit.”

A Museum

The exhibit he is talking about is the ‘Place Hampi’, a new media art installation. You put on 3D glasses and virtually manoeuvre your way through the ruins of Hampi. Created by two Australian historians who spent years studying and documenting them, their work was discovered by the Jindal family at a museum in Melbourne. They replicated it closer to home, in a cultural centre called Kaladham at Vidyanagar.

A Luxury Resort

The destiny of India’s premier heritage destination has been transformed by two recent occurrences. The first, opening of Hampi’s sole luxury resort, at least for now. Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace stands in a quiet corner of the eponymous town just outside Hampi. The destination’s first luxury resort is designed to resemble the original palace of the Vijayanagar emperors and marries ancient architectural elements with modern luxury.

Evolve Back (formerly Orange County) is given to creating interesting experiences steeped in local culture. “Our philosophy revolves around nurturing our past which is why in Hampi, we have referenced local architecture for the resort,” says Jose Ramapuram, Director Marketing, Evolve Back Luxury Resorts. “We generally are present in unexplored destinations that are naturally beautiful and are high on experiences that mainstream destinations lack. When I mean unexplored, I mean by luxury travellers. So, if Coorg has coffee, Kabini has forests, and Hampi has a heritage that very few destinations boast of. The idea to create a palace hotel in Hampi, which had no luxury resorts, which would make the destination far more accessible to well-heeled travellers.”

The hotel’s architectural sweep starts right at the gate, from where a tree-shaded driveway flanked by a long water channel leads to suites and villas. The resort is marked by sweeping verandahs, Islamic-style arches that are reminiscent of the military architectural style of ancient Hampi, water troughs that run across the open courtyard, connecting it through the restaurant Taluva (named after one of Vijayanagar’s dynasties), with the gardens and infinity pool and nook seating. The fort-like resort makes several allusions to the Anegundi Fort with its rounded fortifications and a driveway inspired by the stone-paved boulevards that hedged Hampi’s famed carved temples. The suites and villas with private plunge pools references the zenana or the women’s section in palaces, with their softer colours, diaphanous curtains and luxury in form of a Jacuzzi, some even in the middle of the suites.

There is a flautist playing in the evenings at the head of the water channel in the courtyard, while people settle down for a drink or dinner. There is a full-facility Vaidyashala or Ayurveda spa and Bahmani, a specialty restaurant that serves food from the Bahmani Sultanate, both housed in a replica of the famous Lotus Mahal. There are dining options such as picnic lunches close to the antediluvian temples and romantic dinners in the canopied Mantapa overlooking a lotus pond. There are story-telling sessions about Vijayanagar’s powerful emperors and its ancient riches, hosted in oil lamp-lit domed rooms. And old Indian games such as chaupar are available to play. Ramapuram says, “The idea is to create experiences and facilities within and outside the property that ensures a guest’s stay is interesting.” Evolve Back Hampi cites adoption of a local school, an old temple and an elephant stable, their production of power within the hotel complex, as their attempt at responsible tourism and community involvement.

Vaidyashala or Ayurveda spa

The setting is perfect if you are searching for a travel experience that marries an age-old destination strewn with perfectly preserved ruins of a powerful kingdom, with the luxury of an upscale hotel that you expect to find in major cities across the world.

And an Airport

The opening of the quaint Jindal Vidyanagar Airport, once a private landing strip for JSW Steel which operates a steel mill in the nearby village of Torangallu, has changed the fortunes of Hampi. The Karanataka government and the Airports Authority agreed to run commercial flights to this tiny airport a while ago. TriJet, a regional airline, now operates two flights per day, from Hyderabad and Bengaluru, both a mere hour-long haul from the two major southern cities.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the airport has a glass-encased check-in area (overhung with fish-ceiling sculptures in apparent reference to the fresh water fish that Hampi river is famous for) and a little sheltered check-out area, outside the glass box, where your luggage comes stacked on a tractor-pulled caravan. The journey to Hampi from Hyderabad or Bengaluru would have taken anywhere between eight to ten hours in the past, depending on the condition of the roads. Today, the Vidyanagar to Kamlanagar distance is a comfortable 45 minutes on NH48, across an unreal landscape of red hills (some of them mined), giant boulders, paddy fields and banana plantations.

Ramapuram says, “The airport has definitely changed the profile of the traveller to Hampi. I see a much more evolved traveller, one who has an interest in culture and local experiences, coming in and that is good for any destination.” This is the kind of traveller who likes to spend money on authentic experiences.

Creating a Heritage Hub

The Archeological Survey of India (AAI) reveals that nearly seven lakh travellers visited Hampi till February 2018, of which about 50,000 were international visitors — a mere drop in the ocean when you consider the potential. They are here largely for the Vittala temple complex which houses the famous tone chariot and musical pillars, on which even a light tap by expert hands can produce sounds of various instruments, including the mridangam; the 16th century Lotus Mahal with gentle domes, elephant stables and gardens; and the 7th century Virupaksha temple, the only one which still functions as a place of worship.

While no one wants to go on record about this, locals I meet tell me that AAI is attempting to convince the handful of families who still live within the heritage zone of Hampi, to shift to neighbouring villages in lieu of a compensation. The move is necessitated by the fact that some of structures in Hampi have been taken over by locals to build homes and stores, especially just outside Virupaksha temple. Shifting families out would allow AAI and the state government to convert Hampi into India’s first heritage town which is completely protected under UNESCO rules.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

France, Belgium seek UNESCO recognition for World War I memorials

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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France and Belgium are urging UNESCO to designate scores of their World War I memorials and cemeteries as World Heritage sites as the centennial remembrance of the 1914-1918 war nears its end.

Both sides of the Franco-Belgian border, where much of the fiercest fighting of World War I took place, are dotted with monuments to the dead who fought on the decisive Western Front battlefields like Verdun in France and Passchendaele in Belgium.

The war between a group led by Germany against France, the British Commonwealth and the United States saw some 3 million people die around the front line, which stretched from the Belgian coast to the Swiss border. More than 2 million men are buried in the region, hailing from almost 80 present-day nations.

“These sites force us to draw lessons from the past in order to construct a more peaceful future,” said Minister-President Geert Bourgeois from Belgium’s Flemish region, which was particularly hard hit during the war.

France and Belgium are seeking recognition for 139 sites. UNESCO’s World Heritage committee will assess their request and 29 other nominations for inclusion on the list during a meeting in Bahrain that starts Sunday and runs until July 4.

Even though the scenes of dank trenches and pockmarked battlefields where nerve gas could kill thousands a day are iconic, France and Belgium are centering on the dead and the cemeteries and memorials instead. They stress they do not want to glorify war.

“Immediately after the war, these were mainly places for mourning, for pilgrimages of the ones who had lost their loved ones. But quite quickly they became much more than that,” said Luc Vandael, project manager for the Flemish region.

“They became an appeal for peace and reconciliation. The slogan ‘no more wars’ is quickly associated with those sites. So yes, there is something larger than just being a cemetery,” Vandael said.

Now people make pilgrimages from across the world to remember those who gave their lives in western Europe. The appeal of the sites has spiked during the four years of centennial remembrances that will end with the marking of the Nov. 11, 1918, armistice.

The Menin Gate in western Belgium is one of the most iconic memorials. It is etched with the names of almost 54,000 soldiers killed in the months-long battles around Ypres, many of whose remains were never recovered or did not receive proper burials.

“Through these sites, the nations and people involved can accommodate a shared part of their history. And this is truly a heritage of the world,” said Bourgeois.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow