15 recently added UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2024

Like every year, UNESCO this year too has included an interesting range of new World Heritage Sites, each highlighting exceptional cultural, historical, and natural beauty across the globe. From ancient urban centers to natural wonders, these sites provide a glimpse into humanity's heritage.

Here’s a closer look at 15 of the newly inscribed sites:

The very recent addition to the prestigious list is Moidams in Assam, India. The Moidams are ancient burial mounds that reflect the unique funerary practices of the Ahom Dynasty. These structures date back to the 13th century and offer an insight into the region's historical and religious traditions.

This is basically a collection of sites across South Africa. These beautiful and historic places celebrate the visionary Nelson Mandela. The sites tell about Mandela’s role in human rights, liberation, and reconciliation. One of the prime attractions includes his former residence.

Cultural Landscape of Kenozero Lake is a stunning site showcasing a beautiful amalgam of traditional wooden architecture and agricultural practices adapted to the harsh environment around Kenozero Lake.

These sites across Ethiopia are important for understanding early human habitation and prehistoric cultures. The archaeological and palaeontological evidence from Melka Kunture and Balchit offers an insight into ancient human life.

Hegmataneh in Hamadan, Iran is the site of one of the ancient world’s major cities, Ecbatana. Its extensive archaeological remains offer valuable insights into the Medians and the early urban development of the region.

Phu Phrabat is noted for its ancient stone carvings and inscriptions. These belong to the Dvaravati period and the site also talks about the significant aspects of early Thai civilisation and religious practices through its rock art.

This site combines the ancient Saint Hilarion Monastery with the archaeological remains of Tell Umm Amer. Located in the State of Palestine, it provides a glimpse into early Christian monasticism and ancient urban development.

The Via Appia, also known as the 'Queen of Roads,' is among the oldest roads of ancient Rome. This historic route played a crucial role in the expansion and administration of the Roman Empire.

The Badain Jaran Desert in China is all about stunning sand dunes and lakes. The desert’s unique landscape features towering sand formations and ephemeral lakes, showcasing the dynamic interplay between natural forces in one of the world’s most arid regions.

Umm Al-Jimāl, located in northern Jordan, is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient desert towns. The site showcases the architectural and historical significance of the region, reflecting its role in ancient trade and settlement patterns.

Gedi, an ancient Swahili town in Kenya, is notable for its well-preserved ruins that offer insights into the region's trade and cultural exchanges during the medieval period. The archaeological site reveals the complexities of Swahili civilization.

These Pleistocene sites in South Africa are key to understanding the evolution of modern human behavior. The sites offer significant evidence of early human innovation, art, and social practices, marking crucial stages in prehistory.

The Schwerin Residence Ensemble, featuring the Schwerin Castle and its gardens, represents the architectural splendor of the northern European Renaissance. This site reflects the cultural and historical richness of the region.

The Sado Island Gold Mines are historic mining sites that played an important role in Japan's economy during the Edo period. The site includes mining tunnels and related infrastructure, illustrating the technological and social aspects of historical gold mining.

The Royal Court of Tiébélé boasts decorated buildings representing the artistic and cultural traditions of the Kaso people in Burkina Faso. The elaborate designs reflect the region’s rich royal heritage and architectural style.