The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. It is typically propelled by a gondolier, who uses a rowing oar, which is not fastened to the hull, in a sculling manner and also acts as the rudder. The gondola has existed in Venice since the 11th century, being first mentioned by name in 1094.[11] It is estimated that there were eight to ten thousand gondolas during the 17th and 18th century, but there are only around four hundred in active service today, with virtually all of them used for hire by tourists. While in previous centuries gondolas could be many different colors, a sumptuary law of Venice required that gondolas should be painted black, and they are customarily so painted now. To be fair to Venice's gondoliers, they invest a great deal in their boats: upwards of €20,000 for a traditional hand-built wooden gondola with a useful life of about 20 years, plus annual maintenance. They need to earn the bulk of their annual income in a few short months.
Jiuzhai Valley is located in Zhangzha Town, Jiuzhai Valley County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, in the southern section of the Minshan Mountains in the northwest of Sichuan Province. It is a world natural heritage, a national nature reserve, a national geological park, and a network of world biosphere reserves. A nature reserve whose main purpose is to protect natural scenery ("Official Website of Jiuzhai Valley Scenic Area - About Jiuzhai," n.d.). The rare and beautiful geological calcified lakes and well-protected ecosystem make Jiuzhai Valley have extremely high natural landscape value and scientific research value. However, it shows that climate warming and intensified sulfur and nitrogen deposition have led to the degradation of the current Jiuzhai Valley tuff landscape. The global warming may also lead to higher temperatures in the region, and local ecosystems will be affected. In addition, Jiuzhai Valley is located in China's seismically active north-south seismic zone, where natural disasters occur frequently. The largest geological disaster in recent years was the magnitude 7.0 earthquake that occurred in August 2017.
Dujiangyan is a famous ancient water conservancy project, located on the Minjiang River in the west of Chengdu Plain, Sichuan Province, west of today's Dujiangyan City. It is located where the Minjiang River flows from the mountains into the Chengdu Plain. Before Dujiangyan was built, the Minjiang River often flooded. In 256 B.C., Li Bing, the prefect of Shu County in the State of Qin, and his son, absorbed the experience of previous generations in water control, and led the local people to build water conservancy projects. After the completion of Dujiangyan, the Chengdu Plain became a "Land of Abundance". This project is still functioning today and is known as the "Living Water Conservancy Museum". As an ancient irrigation system, Dujiangyan is facing challenges due to rapid urbanization, socio-economic development, climate change and human activities. These challenges include over-diversion, disruption of hydrological pulses, imbalances in erosion and sedimentation, and conflicts between power generation and water supply.
The Potala Palace is a historic palace located in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Tibet and is considered a symbol of Tibetan culture and history. The palace was originally built in the 7th century, but the current structure was constructed in the 17th century by the Fifth Dalai Lama. It served as the chief residence of the Dalai Lama for several centuries, and was the center of political and religious power in Tibet until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. The Potala Palace is a massive structure that rises over 13 stories tall and covers an area of over 130,000 square meters. It is built on top of a hill, and its imposing white walls and red roofs can be seen from miles away. The palace is a complex of buildings and courtyards, and its many rooms and halls are filled with intricate murals, sculptures, and other works of art. One of the most notable features of the Potala Palace is its Great West Hall, which houses the throne of the Dalai Lama and is considered the most important room in the palace. Other notable rooms include the Red Palace, which contains the private quarters of the Dalai Lama and is known for its beautiful murals and sculptures, and the White Palace, which was used for administrative purposes. Today, the Potala Palace is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it attracts thousands of visitors each year. Despite the political and cultural changes that have taken place in Tibet over the past several decades, the Potala Palace remains a symbol of Tibetan heritage and a testament to the rich history and culture of the Tibetan people.
The Terra Cotta Army, also known as the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. Discovered near the city of Xi'an in Shaanxi province, China in 1974, the Terra Cotta Army is considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The Terra Cotta Army is estimated to consist of over 8,000 individual sculptures, including warriors, horses, chariots, and other figures. The sculptures are unique and highly detailed, and they are considered masterpieces of ancient Chinese art and craftsmanship. Each sculpture in the Terra Cotta Army is different, reflecting the individuality of the soldiers they depict. The warriors are depicted in various poses and dressed in different armor and clothing, and they are armed with weapons such as spears, swords, and crossbows. The horses are also depicted in lifelike poses, and they are accompanied by chariots that are decorated with intricate designs. The Terra Cotta Army is housed in the Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum Site Museum, which is easily accessible from Xi'an. The museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, attracting millions of visitors every year. In conclusion, the Terra Cotta Army is a remarkable collection of sculptures that provides valuable insights into the history and culture of ancient China. The creativity and craftsmanship of the Chinese people are on full display in this magnificent collection of sculptures, and the Terra Cotta Army continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.
Longmen Grottoes, located near Luoyang in Henan Province, is one of the most famous ancient Buddhist sculptural sites in China. The site was first constructed in 493 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty and continued to be expanded and improved during the Tang and Song Dynasties. The grottoes contain over 100,000 statues, with the largest measuring over 17 meters in height. In addition to the sculptures, the grottoes are also adorned with inscriptions and carvings that provide valuable insights into Chinese art, religion, and history. Climate change could have a significant impact on the preservation of Longmen Grottoes. The site is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, flooding, and high temperatures, all of which are projected to increase in frequency and intensity with climate change. These events could lead to erosion, deterioration of the sculptures, and damage to the grottoes' rock walls. In addition, changes in humidity and temperature could create conditions that promote the growth of moss and other vegetation, which could further damage the sculptures and inscriptions. To protect this important cultural heritage site, it is crucial to monitor and understand the impacts of climate change and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Dazu Rock Carvings, located in Dazu District, Chongqing, is a series of Chinese religious sculptures and carvings, dating back as early as the 7th century AD, featuring Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist beliefs. These carvings are known for their high artistic value, technical skill, and historical significance, and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climate change could have an indirect impact on the Dazu Rock Carvings by altering local weather patterns, which could affect the physical and chemical processes that cause weathering and erosion of the sculptures. Increased temperature and humidity could accelerate the growth of algae, moss, and lichen on the rocks, which can cause chemical changes and physical disintegration of the rock surface. Extreme weather events, such as heavy rain and flooding, could also cause physical damage and erosion to the sculptures. In addition, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could affect the local ecosystem and biodiversity, which could indirectly impact the cultural significance of the site. Therefore, it is important to monitor and understand how climate change may affect the physical and ecological conditions of the Dazu Rock Carvings site, in order to help mitigate potential impacts and ensure the preservation of this valuable cultural heritage.
Baiheliang is a submerged rock outcrop in Chongqing, China that was once used as an ancient device to measure water levels of the Yangtze River. It contains 163 inscriptions and pictures, including 114 hydrological annotations that provide detailed records of water levels over 1,200 years, making it the longest such sequence in the world. The fish carvings on the rock serve as markers of the river's lowest water levels. Despite being submerged to a depth of over 30 meters behind the Three Gorges Dam, Baiheliang remains a valuable historical and cultural site. Climate change could affect Baiheliang by changing river hydrology and potentially altering the preservation of its inscriptions and fish carvings. It is important to monitor how climate change may impact the site to preserve this cultural heritage.
The Forbidden City, also known as Zǐjìnchéng in Chinese, is a grand palace complex located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, China. It stands at the heart of the Imperial City of Beijing and is surrounded by several lavish imperial gardens and temples, including Zhongshan Park, Beihai Park, and Jingshan Park. These landmarks cover an area of 22 hectares, 69 hectares, and 23 hectares respectively. The Palace Museum is responsible for its administration. In recent years, the climate in the Forbidden City area has shown a trend of rising temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and increasing drought. The vegetation, soil, and water sources in the area have been affected to some extent due to the impact of climate change, and some cultural heritage sites and architectural structures have been threatened as well.
Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, France. The cathedral has stood for nearly 900 years, surviving wars, revolutions, and natural disasters. However, with the current threat of climate change, Notre-Dame de Paris is facing new challenges. The cathedral may be at risk of flooding due to the rising waters of the Seine River, and extreme weather events such as heatwaves and storms could also cause damage to the delicate stonework and wooden structures. In order to protect this cultural treasure for future generations, it is crucial to take action against climate change and to implement measures to adapt to its impacts. Notre-Dame de Paris serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our historical and cultural heritage, and the need to safeguard it from the effects of a changing climate.
The Potala Palace, an awe-inspiring architectural marvel, is situated on the Red Hill in Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. With its majestic white and red facades, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dominates the skyline, emanating a sense of grandeur and spiritual significance. Built in the 7th century under the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, the palace was expanded during the 17th century by the Fifth Dalai Lama, transforming it into the winter residence for successive Dalai Lamas. Spanning over 13 hectares, the palace comprises two main sections, the White Palace (Potrang Karpo) and the Red Palace (Potrang Marpo), which are connected by a central courtyard. The White Palace houses the living quarters, offices, and ceremonial halls for the Dalai Lamas, while the Red Palace is dedicated to religious functions, comprising of sacred shrines, chapels, and tombs of the previous Dalai Lamas. A remarkable feature of Potala Palace is its harmonious blend of traditional Tibetan architecture and design, combined with influences from Chinese and Indian styles. The complex stands 13 stories high with more than 1,000 rooms, adorned with intricate murals, exquisite carvings, and priceless artifacts, reflecting the rich Tibetan culture and history. The palace, once the center of Tibetan government and Buddhism, is now a renowned museum and an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Visitors are left in awe by its magnificence, the sacred ambiance, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lhasa city from its lofty perch.
Culture,Movable Cultural Heritage,Tourism
The Sanxingdui ancient site is located on the south bank of the Yuzi River in the northwest of Guanghan City, Sichuan Province, with a distribution area of 12 square kilometres and a history of 3,000 to 5,000 years ago. It is the largest ancient city, state and cultural site with the longest continuation and richest cultural connotation found in the southwest region to date. The best-preserved eastern, western and southern city walls and the inner city walls of Moon Bay are now in place. The Sanxingdui site has been described as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, signifying that the Yangtze River basin, like the Yellow River basin, was the motherland of Chinese civilisation, and is known as the 'source of the Yangtze civilisation'. The artefacts unearthed therein are a valuable part of mankind's cultural heritage, and are among the most historically, scientifically, culturally and artistically valuable and ornamental of any group of Chinese cultural relics. Amongst these ancient treasures are a 2.62m high bronze figure, a 1.38m wide bronze mask and a 3.95m high bronze tree, all of which are unique and unparalleled. The gold sceptre and the jade and stone objects, represented by the full-decorated border jangles, are also rare and unprecedented.
Culture,Immovable Culture Heritage,Tourism
Dujiangyan is a large water conservancy project built in ancient China and used to this day, located in Sichuan Province, 340 km upstream of the Minjiang River, west of the city of Dujiangyan. The Dujiangyan is said to have been built by Li Bing and his sons, the Sheriff of Shu County in the Qin Dynasty during the Warring States period, from about 256 to 251 years ago. It has been renovated by successive generations and has served a great purpose for over 2,000 years. There are many monuments around the Dujiangyan, including the Erwang Temple, Fulongguan, Anlan Bridge, Yubi Pass, Fengqiwo and Doushitai. The entire Dujiangyan pivot can be divided into two major systems: the head of the weir and the irrigation water network. The head of the weir includes the three main projects of the fish mouth (water diversion project), the flying sand weir (flooding and sand drainage project) and the treasure bottle mouth (water diversion project). The Dujiangyan project is mainly a water diversion and irrigation project but also has a comprehensive function of flood control and sand drainage, water transportation and urban water supply. The Chengdu Plain, which was irrigated by the Dujiangyan project, was known as the 'Land of Heaven' in China.
Qingcheng Mountain is the main scenic spot of the World Heritage Site Qingcheng Mountain - Dujiangyan, a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit, a National Key Scenic Spot, a National AAAA Grade Tourism Scenic Spot, a sacred place of the Quanzhen Longmen School, one of the Ten Great Cave Days, one of the Four Great Taoist Mountains of China, one of the Five Great Immortal Mountains and one of the Ten Scenic Spots of Chengdu. Qingcheng Mountain is located southwest of Dujiangyan City, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, 68 km east of Chengdu City and 10 km southwest of the Dujiangyan Water Conservancy Project. The scenic area covers an area of 200 square kilometres, with the highest peak, Laojunge, at 1,260 metres above sea level. The mountain is divided into the front and back hills, which are surrounded by undulating peaks and lush forests. Verdant trees surround the mountain, always green in all seasons, and the peaks are like the outline of a city, hence Qingcheng Mountain. The mountain is known for its beauty and cleanliness, with thousands of steps and winding paths. Inside and outside the scenic area, the Tian Shi Cave and the Yuan Ming Palace are special features of Qingcheng Mountain.
Hakka is a Chinese language spoken by the Hakka people, a Han Chinese ethnic group who primarily reside in southeastern China. Hakka is one of the seven major Chinese dialects and is known for its distinctive tonal system, vocabulary, and grammar. Hakka has a rich history and has been influenced by various cultures and languages over the centuries. It is believed to have originated from northern China and was brought to southern China by the Hakka people during several migration waves in ancient times. Despite being a minority language, Hakka has a vibrant culture and has made significant contributions to Chinese literature, music, and cuisine. Many famous Chinese poets, such as Li Qingzhao, have written in the Hakka language, and traditional Hakka music is considered an important part of Chinese folk music. Hakka is still widely spoken today, especially in Taiwan, where it is one of the official languages. In mainland China, Hakka is also an officially recognized language, and there are efforts underway to preserve and promote the language and culture. In conclusion, Hakka is a rich and fascinating language with a long history and a vibrant culture. It is an important part of Chinese heritage and continues to be spoken and celebrated by millions of people around the world.
Osaka Castle, located in Osaka, Japan, was built in 1583 by feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle played a crucial role in Japan's unification during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600) and represents Japanese history and culture. The main tower, or "tenshukaku," is an architectural marvel with beautiful gold leaf decorations. Inside, a museum showcases artifacts such as armor, weapons, and art pieces. Surrounded by Osaka Castle Park, the area is known for its cherry blossoms during spring. The park offers walking paths, tea houses, and gardens, creating a tranquil escape. In conclusion, Osaka Castle is an essential destination for those interested in Japanese history, architecture, and culture, providing a unique insight into Japan's past and natural beauty.
The Ming Imperial Palace, located in Nanjing, China, served as the royal residence during the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Today, remnants of the palace complex and the Ming City Wall offer visitors a chance to explore the past. Key structures include the Meridian Gate, the Gate of Heavenly Purity, and the Palace of Heavenly Favor. Their exquisite design and craftsmanship showcase the opulence of the Ming Dynasty. The well-preserved city wall stands as a testament to the era's engineering prowess. The on-site museum houses artifacts and relics, providing a comprehensive overview of the Ming Dynasty's history and culture. In conclusion, the Ming Imperial Palace is an essential destination for those interested in Chinese history, architecture, and culture, offering unique insights into the lives of emperors and the splendor of the Ming Dynasty.
Mawangdui, an archaeological site in Changsha, Hunan Province, China, holds great historical and cultural significance. Dating back to the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 9 CE), it offers insights into the customs and culture of that era. The site houses three well-preserved tombs, with Lady Dai's (Xin Zhui) tomb being the most famous. Lady Dai, the wife of the Marquis of Dai, was found remarkably preserved, making her the best-preserved mummy from ancient China. Artifacts found at Mawangdui include silk manuscripts, lacquerware, pottery, musical instruments, and early Chinese silk paintings. The "Mawangdui Silk Texts" are particularly notable, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese medicine, astronomy, and philosophy. Visitors can explore the on-site museum, which displays the majority of the unearthed artifacts and provides historical context. Mawangdui is an essential destination for those interested in Chinese history and culture, offering a unique window into the Western Han Dynasty and ancient China.
South China Karst is one of the world’s most spectacular examples of humid tropical to subtropical karst landscapes. It is a serial site spread over the provinces of Guizhou, Guangxi, Yunnan and Chongqing and covers 97,125 hectares. It contains the most significant types of karst landforms, including tower karst, pinnacle karst and cone karst formations, along with other spectacular characteristics such as natural bridges, gorges and large cave systems. The stone forests of Shilin are considered superlative natural phenomena and a world reference. The cone and tower karsts of Libo, also considered the world reference site for these types of karst, form a distinctive and beautiful landscape. Wulong Karst has been inscribed for its giant dolines (sinkholes), natural bridges and caves.From Unesco
Golden Mountains of Altai is the name of an UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of the Altai and Katun Natural Reserves, Lake Teletskoye, Belukha Mountain, and the Ukok Plateau. Climate change has caused the melting of the permafrost endangering the preservation of these tombs. Over the past 100 years there has been a 1°C increase in temperature across Asia and a 2°C increase in temperature in the footsteps of the Altai, with the increase more pronounced in the winter and spring. From Unesco
Vatnajökull national park aerial pano
This is the aerial pano of Vatnajökull national park
Hierapolis-Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey, blends natural and historical splendour. The location has a rich history and is known for its beautiful travertine terraces from hot springs and well-preserved Greco-Roman city remains. Founded as a thermal spa in the 2nd century BC, Hierapolis became an influential cultural and healing center. Today, visitors explore ancient landmarks like the theater, Temple of Apollo, Roman baths, and a vast necropolis. Pamukkale, or Cotton Castle, showcases stunning white travertine terraces with turquoise pools, drawing visitors for millennia. Climate change threatens Hierapolis-Pamukkale, with temperature and precipitation shifts potentially degrading both ruins and travertine formations. Protection efforts include climate monitoring, sustainable tourism, and conservation measures. Engaging with Hierapolis-Pamukkale's heritage via digital exhibits and interactive experiences raises awareness about protective action.
The ancient tie-dye pits located in Kano State, Nigeria, are a collection of man-made pits dating over six hundred years(1498) in which natural dyes are used by traditional artisans to dye textiles. The materials used for the dying are all natural. Potassium, Baba tree bark and Firewood ashes. The dyes only produce one colour which is Indigo Blue. The process of forming the dye can take up to 9 months. The pits are reused throughout this period as the older the dye formulation in the pit, the better the quality of the dye. The pits are used to dye the clothing of the royal families' in Kano. They are are known for producing vibrant colors and unique patterns, which are created by the various minerals found in the dye.
This picture is of the three major ingredients used to create Natural Dye(Blue Indigo). The materials consist of Potassium(left), baba plant(bottom), Firewood ashes(top).
The most famous Mazu temple called Jenn Lann Temple in Taiwan
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
The west lake cultural landscape of Hangzhou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Hangzhou, China. It is a cultural landscape that encompasses the west lake and its surrounding hills, temples, pagodas, and gardens. The site has been a popular destination for tourists and poets for centuries, and its natural beauty has been celebrated in Chinese literature and art. The west lake cultural landscape has cultural, historical, and aesthetic value, showcasing the blending of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. The site embodies the Chinese philosophy of harmony between man and nature, and it represents the cultural and artistic achievements of the Southern Song Dynasty.
The Phoenix Islands,or Rawaki, are a group of eight atolls and two submerged coral reefs that lie east of the Gilbert Islands and west of the Line Islands in the central Pacific Ocean, north of Samoa. They are part of the Republic of Kiribati. Their combined land area is 28 square kilometres (11 sq mi). The only island of any commercial importance is Canton Island (also called Abariringa). The other islands are Enderbury, Rawaki (formerly Phoenix), Manra (formerly Sydney), Birnie, McKean, Nikumaroro (formerly Gardner), and Orona (formerly Hull). The Phoenix Islands Protected Area, established in 2008, is one of the World's largest protected areas, and is home to about 120 species of coral and more than 500 species of fish. All of the Phoenix Islands are uninhabited, except for a few families who live on Canton Island.
The ancient city of Pingyao is located in central Shanxi Province, China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the ancient city of Pingyao includes ancient city walls, streets, shops, Urns, corner towers, and entrances; it has a land area of 225 hectares and is a complete complex of buildings. The architecture of the ancient city of Pingyao is unique and embodies the essence of ancient Chinese central city architecture. It is an important immovable cultural heritage in China and has been preserved Somewhat intact until now. However, the ancient city is subject to the effects of climate change, for example, due to heavy rainfall, which causes the walls to collapse due to waterlogging within the ancient city.
Mont Saint-Michel is a rocky tidal island located off the coast of Normandy, France. It is home to a stunning Gothic-style abbey that dates back to the 8th century and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The site has played an important role in French history and served as a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Mont Saint Michel has cultural significance as a symbol of medieval religious and military architecture, and its unique location and history make it a popular tourist destination. The Abbey atop Mont Saint-Michel swiftly rose to prominence as a major Christian West pilgrimage site and a seat of mediaeval culture where a significant quantity of manuscripts were created and preserved. "City of the Books" is the moniker given to Mont-Saint-Michel.
The reefs off of the small island of Roatan remain some of the best preserved reefs around the world. The fish life and coral thrive in these protected areas and provide some of the best scuba diving in the world. While they remain in good shape today, the threat of climate change looms still and threatens to destroy these fragile ecosystems. Along with various reefs, this island sports a few sunken ship wrecks that add more intriguing dive sites to the area. It is an important part of the natural world that is under direct threat from climate change. (re uploaded because I forgot to include the right layer)
Mont Saint-Michel is a tidal island and mainland commune in Normandy, France. The Abbey atop Mont Saint-Michel swiftly rose to prominence as a major Christian West pilgrimage site and a seat of mediaeval culture where a significant quantity of manuscripts were created and preserved. "City of the Books" is the moniker given to Mont-Saint-Michel.
The reefs off of the small island of Roatan remain some of the best preserved reefs around the world. The fish life and coral thrive in these protected areas and provide some of the best scuba diving in the world. While they remain in good shape today, the threat of climate change looms still and threatens to destroy these fragile ecosystems. Along with various reefs, this island sports a few sunken ship wrecks that add more intriguing dive sites to the area. It is an important part of the natural world that is under direct threat from climate change.
Rosslyn Chapel is a 15th-century chapel located in Midlothian, Scotalnd, and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the country. The chapel has been featured in popular culture and is often associated with the myths and legends surrounding the Knights Templar. Its intricate stonework, including carvings of Green Man, dragons, and biblical scenes, is a testament to the skill of the masons who constructed it. The chapel has cultural heritage importance as a symbol of Scotland's medieval architecture and religious history.
Ye Olde Burying Ground is the oldest burial ground in the town of Lexington, MA. The earliest graves here mark back to the 1690s. This cemetery boasts graves of many prominent early Lexington settlers as well as the bodies of soldiers from both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Famously, the first causality of the British army is also buried here in an unmarked grave.
This historic pond may be more famous today for its swimming and beach access, however the location is stepped with history. Walden pond inspired author Henry David Thoreau to write his famous aptly named Walden book as an ode to the two and a half years he spent by this pond in a nature retreat. While the pond today does not hold the same seclusion he had experienced, its beauty and surrounding walking trails provide a small respite from the bustling traffic of Route 2 only half a mile away. Luckily, this pond lies in the Walden Pond State Reservation and is unlikely to be threatened by development. However, as climate change affects the whole planet, this ecosystem will also be put under strain as with most natural places.
The six countries involved in the six nations rugby championship displayed using rugby balls.
Midsummer celebration - Dancing around the maypole.
Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur
Memphis and its Necropolis - the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur is a site that contains the most iconic and recognizable monuments of ancient Egyptian civilization. The pyramids and other funerary complexes located here, including the Great Sphinx of Giza, have stood for thousands of years and are a testament to the remarkable engineering skills and artistic achievements of the ancient Egyptians. However, climate change poses a potential threat to the preservation of these ancient wonders. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events, such as sandstorms and flooding, can cause erosion and damage to the structures. Additionally, changes in water levels and salinity in the Nile Delta could impact the surrounding landscape and affect the stability of the monuments. It is essential that measures be taken to mitigate the effects of climate change on this invaluable cultural heritage site and to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate its historical and artistic significance.
Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi and Palace of Tau, Reims
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame, the former Abbey of Saint-Rémi, and the Palace of Tau in Reims, France, collectively represent an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and art. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame is known for its stunning stained glass windows and sculpture, while the former Abbey of Saint-Rémi is a testament to Romanesque architecture. The Palace of Tau, which served as the residence of the archbishops of Reims, is a remarkable example of medieval secular architecture. These buildings played a significant role in the religious and political history of France, including the coronation of most of the kings of France. However, climate change poses a potential threat to these historic structures. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and heavy rain, can cause significant damage to the buildings' delicate structures and materials. Rising sea levels and flooding also pose a threat to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, which is located near the Seine River. The potential impacts of climate change underscore the need for careful management and conservation of these important cultural heritage sites.
Memphis and its Necropolis - the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur comprise some of the most iconic and impressive architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. Located just outside of modern-day Cairo, these pyramid complexes served as the final resting places for some of the most powerful pharaohs of the Old Kingdom period, dating back to over 4,500 years ago. The most famous of these pyramids is the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is the only remaining member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In addition to the pyramids, this World Heritage site also includes the Great Sphinx, the mortuary temples of various pharaohs, and other burial complexes. The architecture and construction techniques used to build these structures, including the precise alignment to astronomical features, continue to amaze and inspire visitors and scholars alike. This site is a testament to the incredible skill and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization, and its enduring legacy as one of the most advanced societies of the ancient world.
Venice and its Lagoon is a cultural site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. The property consists of a group of 118 islands in the Venetian Lagoon, located in northeastern Italy. The city of Venice, with its iconic canals, historic architecture, and cultural traditions, has been an important center of trade and culture since the Middle Ages. The lagoon itself, which stretches over 50,000 hectares, includes a range of natural habitats, including salt marshes, shallow waters, and sandbanks, which provide important ecological functions and support a rich biodiversity. Venice and its Lagoon is recognized as an outstanding example of the complex interaction between human societies and their natural environment. The city's architecture, art, and cultural heritage reflect the influence of a range of cultures, including Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance, and demonstrate the importance of Venice as a center of trade and cultural exchange. At the same time, the lagoon's natural ecosystems provide important resources for local communities and support a range of species, many of which are endangered or rare. Together, the city and its lagoon represent a unique cultural and natural heritage that continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.
Famous Vietnamese Iced Coffee, with condensed milk.
Vietnamese coffee brewing in preparation of iced coffee.
These terraces were planted with coffee in Vietnam, several hours outside of mountainous Da Lat. Uploaded from: http://flickr.com/photo/14279744@N03/2212677624
The Forbidden City (Chinese: 紫禁城; pinyin: Zǐjìnchéng) is a palace complex in Dongcheng District, Beijing, China, at the center of the Imperial City of Beijing. It is surrounded by numerous opulent imperial gardens and temples including the 22 ha (54-acre) Zhongshan Park, the sacrificial Imperial Ancestral Temple, the 69 ha (171-acre) Beihai Park, and the 23 ha (57-acre) Jingshan Park.[2] It is officially administered by the Palace Museum. (Wiki, 2023) The Forbidden City was constructed from 1406 to 1420, and was the former Chinese imperial palace and winter residence of the Emperor of China from the Ming dynasty (since the Yongle Emperor) to the end of the Qing dynasty, between 1420 and 1924. The Forbidden City served as the home of Chinese emperors and their households and was the ceremonial and political center of the Chinese government for over 500 years. Since 1925, the Forbidden City has been under the charge of the Palace Museum, whose extensive collection of artwork and artifacts were built upon the imperial collections of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Forbidden City was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.[3] (Wiki, 2023) The complex consists of 980 buildings,[4] encompassing 9,999 rooms and covering 720,000 m2 (72 ha)/178 acres.[5][6] The palace exemplifies the opulence of the residences of the Chinese emperor and the traditional Chinese palatial architecture,[3] and has influenced cultural and architectural developments in East Asia and elsewhere. It is listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. Since 2012, the Forbidden City has seen an average of 14 million visitors annually, and received more than 19 million visitors in 2019.[7] In 2018, the Forbidden City's market value was estimated at 70 billion USD, making it both the world's most valuable palace and the most valuable piece of real estate anywhere in the world.[8] (Wiki, 2023) The Forbidden City in Beijing is one of the largest and most well-preserved wooden structures in the world. It was listed as the first batch of national key cultural relics in 1961. (Wiki, 2023)
The Great Wall is a World Heritage Site. It is an immovable cultural heritage. The construction of the Great Wall took 220 years and resulted in the most significant defensive structure ever built at the time. The entire length of the Great Wall of China is more than 20,000 kilometres; Built at various points in time throughout history, the walls, forts, mountain passes, and beacons that were part of the extensive defence system of the property have been preserved up to the present day. The Great Wall can be affected by climate change and led to the Great Wall, thus weathering and erosion of the building materials.
The Museum owns parts of the oldest seagoing sailing ship ever found in northern Europe. This is also the earliest example of a Romano-Celtic shipbuilding tradition that extended from the Danube in the east to France and Britain in the west. Vessels of this type were suited to the tidal coasts of northern Europe, for they had flat bottoms so that cargoes could by loaded and unloaded on a beach at low tide.
Iceland's Pingvellir National Park is a location with enormous historical and cultural value. The Alpingi, the world’s oldest parliamentary assembly in existence, was founded in the park in the year 930 AD. For centuries, the Alpingi served as a location for Icelanders to assemble, discuss and make choices regarding the country's future. Pingvellir is situated in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a marvel of nature that divides the tectonic plates of North America and Europe. This area has many beautiful natural features including deep fissures, clear streams, and spectacular waterfalls. The heritage site is highly valuable due to its distinctive geological characteristics as well as its cultural and historical significance and can be considered as Immovable, Tangible Natural Heritage site. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and it should be preserved for future generations.
The Shipwreck Museum is an independent charitable Museum of the Nautical Museums Trust Charity No. 284687 – set in the historic Old Town of Hastings, UK. The Museum has artefacts from many ships wrecked in the English Channel from the Goodwin Sands in Kent to Pevensey Bay in East Sussex including the Amsterdam a Dutch East Indiaman of 1749 and the Anne of 1690 also the Charles II warship.
The hanbok, also called Chosŏn-ot is traditional Korean clothing. It is worn not only by South and North Korea, but also by the joseon-jok, a minority group in China. The term hanbok literally means “Korean clothing.” Hanbok is also depicted in detail on murals from the Goguryeo period in Korea. Due to the isolation from each other for about 50 years, the styles of hanbok in South Korea, North Korea, and joseonjok, worn by the Korean ethnics from these three countries have developed separately from each other. Since the 1990s, the South Korean-style and the North Korean-style have been looking more and more similar to each other. Similarly, since the Chinese economic reform of China, there have been more exchanges with both Koreas leading to both the development and changes in joseonjok-style Chosŏn-ot in China;some of designs of the joseonjok-style Chosŏn-ot have been influenced and inspired by both South-Korean and North Korean hanbok designs.
Sundarbans National Park is a natural park, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is in the three river deltas of the Bay of Bengal: the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is a world’s largest mangrove forest spanning at over 10,000 square kilometres, more than half of it is in India and the rest in Bangladesh. The Sundarbans is home to a wide variety of animals, which are all endangered species, these include many types of birds, Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and Indian pythons. In addition to serving as a natural barrier to prevent floods, it is a rich source of natural resources and wood [1]. This is a perfect destination for nature lovers
Known for its distinctive ecological and cultural features, Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal's eastern Himalayas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be considered as a tangible, immovable natural heritage site. The park, which is 1,148 square kilometres in size, is home to Mount Everest and some of the highest mountains in the world, as well as a wide variety of plants and animals. The park serves as a crucial home for endangered animals including the snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan black bear. The Sherpa people, who have long since inhabited the area still follow their traditional way of life and religion. The Park is a well-liked tourist attraction because of its value both ecologically and culturally. The park provides hiking and mountaineering options as well as cultural experiences like touring Sherpa communities and monasteries which promote Buddhism. Climate change is impacting the melting of glaciers in this region. If the current global temperatures tend to increase, half of the world's glaciers will be vanished.
The Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple is a remarkable site in Telangana, India, also known as the Ramappa temple. It was constructed between 1123 and 1323 under the Kakatiya dynasty. This temple is a tribute to the Hindu deity Shiva and is one of the best examples of Kakatiya architecture. The temple is decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures, a proof to the expert craftsmanship of the Kakatiya period. The temple has a tall tower, known as a shikhara, with intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures on a high platform. The walls of the temple are also decorated with sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple's main entrance features finely carved pillars that emit different types of music when touched, giving it the nickname "Temple of Music"[4]. Every year, many tourists from all over the world visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site
Situated at a strategic point along the Silk Route, at the crossroads of trade as well as religious, cultural and intellectual influences, the 492 cells and cave sanctuaries in Mogao are famous for their statues and wall paintings, spanning 1,000 years of Buddhist art. The Mogao Caves hold significant historical significance because they provide knowledge into numerous facets of mediaeval history about politics, economics, and social mores. The Mogao Caves are in a desert region susceptible to climate change. As a result of climate change, Mogao Caves have been impacted by reduced vegetation and increased soil erosion, and other effects leading to increased risks of weathering and erosion, which threaten the preservation of murals and stone carvings.
Khangchendzonga National Park, in the Indian state of Sikkim, is a rare and rich mixed cultural and natural heritage site which is tangible and immovable. The park is named after the Khangchendzonga peak, the world's third highest peak, and covers an area of more than 850 square kilometres. It is home to a diverse range of flora and animals, including some endangered species, as well as numerous glaciers and alpine meadows. The park is also culturally significant to the locals, who believe that the Khangchendzonga mountain is the home of their guardian deity. Many religious rituals and ceremonies are held at the park in reverence of this deity, and the park is regarded as sacred by the local communities. Climate change is disrupting the lives of local people due to natural calamities like floods.
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India is a stunning monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz his Mahal. The Taj Mahal is famous for its stunning exterior with symmetrical designs, intricate carvings, and sparkling gemstone inlays. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the white marble mausoleum has his four smaller domes surrounding a central dome and his four minarets 40 meters high. Muslims pay tribute to the emperor and his wife by visiting the Taj Mahal and tourists from all over the world come to marvel at its beauty and know about its cultural and historical significance.
This is the School of Computer Science for the University of St Andrews
The Historic Centre of Odesa is an area within the city of Odesa that is currently endangered and that is characterised for its eclectic architecture, rapid growth and high cultural value. The most remarkable building in the centre of Odesa is the Odesa National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. It opened its doors on 10 February 1810 and currently has a slightly different architectural design than how it was originally built. The theatre has held the performances of notable singers and sopranos. Furthermore, the Derybasivska Street is one of the most picturesque and popular avenues in this area. Plenty of cafes and restaurants are located here and therefore it attracts many people and tourists during the summer.