What are the UNESCO selection criteria for World Heritage Sites?

What are the UNESCO selection criteria for World Heritage Sites?

UNESCO uses ten selection criteria to evaluate sites for World Heritage status. These include cultural significance, historical importance, and natural beauty.

Can you explain each of the criteria in detail?

Sure! The criteria are: 1) Criterion I: Represent a masterpiece of human creative genius. 2) Criterion II: Exhibit an important interchange of human values. 3) Criterion III: Bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition. 4) Criterion IV: Be an outstanding example of a type of building or architectural ensemble. 5) Criterion V: Be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement. 6) Criterion VI: Be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions. 7) Criterion VII: Contain superlative natural phenomena. 8) Criterion VIII: Be outstanding examples of significant ongoing geological processes. 9) Criterion IX: Be outstanding examples of significant ecological and biological processes. 10) Criterion X: Contain the most important and significant natural habitats.

How many sites are currently listed as World Heritage Sites?

As of now, there are over 1,100 World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO, including both cultural and natural sites.

What is the process for a site to be nominated?

The nomination process involves a country submitting a nomination dossier to UNESCO, which is then evaluated by experts before being considered for inclusion.