When thinking about potential vacation destinations, UNESCO World Heritage Sites are always a major draw. UNESCO, an international agency of the United Nations which works toward cultural understanding and world peace, has developed an extensive list of some of the world’s most significant sites.
What many do not realize is that these sites can be divided into three categories. So, what are they?
Cultural
The first and probably the most well-known type of UNESCO World Heritage Site is the cultural site. These landmarks have a type of cultural value which can be architectural, musical, or culinary, just to name a few examples. These sites have contributed something with incredible value to humanity.
Natural
Natural heritage sites are designated as such because they are the home of “superlative natural phenomena” of great value to humankind. National Parks such as the Great Smoky Mountains are chosen for this designation due to their rich variety of flora and fauna.
Mixed
Some sites which have been chosen for recognition by UNESCO are mixed, meaning that they hold both cultural and natural value. For example, the landscape of Machu Picchu high in the Andes Mountains is both naturally significant and culturally significant due to its historical value.
