Why is World Heritage Day celebrated?
World Heritage Day, also known as International Day of Monuments and Historic Sites, is celebrated every year on April 18. This day is dedicated to protecting and preserving the world’s cultural heritage for future generations. The celebration of the day is particularly important because it highlights the importance of cultural heritage and encourages people around the world to participate in its protection and appreciation.
What is the background of World Heritage Day?
The establishment of World Heritage Day dates back to 1982, when the International Council on Monuments and Historic Sites (ICOMOS) proposed celebrating the day. UNESCO accepted the proposal the following year, and the first World Heritage Day was celebrated on April 18, 1983. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the diversity of cultural heritage and the importance of preserving it.
Why is World Heritage Day celebrated?
Celebrating World Heritage Day has several important goals:
- Raising awareness: The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the importance of cultural heritage and the need to preserve it. This applies to historical buildings, archaeological sites as well as traditional customs and skills.
- Protection of cultural heritage: The day encourages people and communities to actively participate in the protection of cultural heritage. This can mean, for example, volunteering, fundraising or participating in conservation projects.
- Intercultural understanding: World Heritage Day promotes intercultural understanding and respect. It reminds us that cultural heritage belongs to everyone and that preserving it is our joint responsibility.
- Education and research: The day offers an opportunity for education and research related to cultural heritage. This may include seminars, workshops and exhibitions that deepen understanding of the importance of cultural heritage and its protection.
How is World Heritage Day celebrated?
World Heritage Day is celebrated in many different ways around the world. Here are some examples:
- Guided tours and excursions: Many historical sites and museums organize special guided tours and excursions that provide more in-depth information about the history and significance of the sites.
- Seminars and lectures: Several organizations and educational institutions organize seminars and lectures where experts share information about the protection of cultural heritage and the related challenges.
- Workshops and exhibitions: Workshops and exhibitions offer an opportunity to learn more about cultural heritage and participate in its protection on a practical level.
- Volunteer work: Many communities organize volunteer work projects where people can participate, for example, in the restoration of historic buildings or in archaeological excavations.
Conclusion
World Heritage Day is an important reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and the importance of preserving it. It offers an opportunity to learn, participate and influence the protection of cultural heritage. By cooperating and raising awareness, we can ensure that our valuable cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Read more about World Heritage Day and its celebration from ICOMOS official website.
