Important Facts For Prelims
World Heritage Week 2019
- 10 Dec 2019
- 2 min read
Why in News
The World Heritage Week is celebrated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) every year from November 19 to November 25.
- In India, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) celebrates it.
Key Points
- Its objective is to make people aware of the rich heritage and also strive for its preservation.
- The Archaeological Survey of India and several other museums organise programs highlighting the significance of ancient monuments and their preservation.
- Various programs related to historical structures, tour places and cultural and traditional heritage of the country were initiated to celebrate the week.
- Several schools and colleges celebrated it by organising quiz and painting competitions.
- The heritage sites celebrating the week include Qutub Minar, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Delhi Red Fort, Delhi Darwaza, Bhadra Gate among others.
- There are 38 UNESCO World Heritage sites in India which include 30 cultural sites, 7 natural sites and 1 mixed site.
- Jaipur is the latest addition to the list of UNESCO cultural heritage sites.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
- It was founded in 1945 to develop the “intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind” as a means of building lasting peace.
- It is located in Paris, France.
- ASI is the premier organization for the archaeological research, scientific analysis, excavation of archaeological sites, conservation and preservation of protected monuments.
- It is an attached office under the Department of Culture, Ministry of Culture.
- ASI was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham- the first Director-General of ASI.