Day of the Dead (Spanish: El Día de los Muertos)
It is an important festival in Mexico. This intangible cultural heritage is a time when people gather in cemeteries to pray for their loved ones and bring them the food and wine they once enjoyed. The event takes place every year from October 31 to November 2. The origins of this traditional holiday may be traced back to rituals performed by the ancient Aztec people, who honored the dead by placing skulls on Aztec temples more than a thousand years before the Day of the Dead. But it has evolved throughout history and is now a huge annual world festival. In addition to the food, the building of the altar was also an essential part of the festival, with Christian crosses, skulls made of clay, and other colorful artistic designs placed around the altar along with yellow cempasúchil flowers. It is believed that the scent of the flower will guide departing spirits to find their way home. Mexicans use this unique way of remembering and communicating with the dead, and as Pixar's 2017 film Coco suggests, people don't really die until their loved ones forget about them.
The gallery houses Scotland's national collection of fine art, spanning Scottish and international art from the beginning of the Renaissance up to the start of the 20th century.
Formerly the most densely populated area in the world, initially built as a military fort to report on the British during their colonization of Hong Kong. Afterwards it kept growing and became a non-governed area, attracting refugees and people with no where else to go. Firstly, the actual historical conditions of the city, as a “lawless slum” in addition to being the most densely populated area in recorded history, holds value as an example of urban density and self-organization contrasted with current standards. Furthermore, the Walled City was during an Hong Kong’s its colonization to Britian, as a means for the Chinese to keep watch on the British (Roos). Lastly, the walled city is also a point of interest for pop culture, particularly the “cyberpunk” genre. Currently, the Kowloon Walled City is being digitally preserved in some capacity, through virtual reality. However, unlike the other two examples, what is being preserved is not a one-to-one representation of the former city, but rather the essence of its aesthetics. This is done through digital media, utilizing the city as an inspiration for settings in video games (Bedingfield), as well as being settings within films. This improves the sustainable goal of education by informing of the existence of the walled city, and its cultural impact. ely populated area in the world, initially built as a military fort to report on the British during their colonization of Hong Kong. Afterwards it kept growing and became a non-governed area, attracting refugees and people with no where else to go.
Culture,Immovable Culture Heritage,Intangible Heritage
Formerly the most densely populated area in the world, initially built as a military fort to report on the British during their colonization of Hong Kong. Afterwards it kept growing and became a non-governed area, attracting refugees and people with no where else to go. Firstly, the actual historical conditions of the city, as a “lawless slum” in addition to being the most densely populated area in recorded history, holds value as an example of urban density and self-organization contrasted with current standards. Furthermore, the Walled City was during an Hong Kong’s its colonization to Britian, as a means for the Chinese to keep watch on the British (Roos). Lastly, the walled city is also a point of interest for pop culture, particularly the “cyberpunk” genre. Currently, the Kowloon Walled City is being digitally preserved in some capacity, through virtual reality. However, unlike the other two examples, what is being preserved is not a one-to-one representation of the former city, but rather the essence of its aesthetics. This is done through digital media, utilizing the city as an inspiration for settings in video games (Bedingfield), as well as being settings within films. This improves the sustainable goal of education by informing of the existence of the walled city, and its cultural impact.
The Herculaneum Scrolls are ancient scrolls discovered in Herculaneum in the 18th century AD. The scrolls were buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. Now these ancient scrolls have been severely carbonized and are very fragile. If they are not careful, they will be completely broken, making it difficult for people to open these scrolls. In the early days, the scrolls were even thought to be carbonized tree branches and were abandoned or even burned. Currently, researchers are using a variety of methods to try to unfold The Herculaneum Scrolls, even using the latest three-dimensional scanning technology and artificial intelligence algorithms, and have made a lot of progress. Years of research revealed that the scrolls came from ancient libraries and contained many ancient Greek philosophical texts, including the works of ancient Greek philosophers and poets.
Yangliuqing woodblock prints are Chinese folk woodblock prints, which are said to have begun in the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty and flourished in the middle of the Qing Dynasty. Yangliuqing woodblock prints have a wide range of themes, rich content, full composition, auspicious meanings, and are appreciated by both the public and the private. It adopts the method of combining carving and painting, with exquisite carving, delicate painting, vivid characters and elegant colours. It inherits the tradition of Song and Yuan paintings, absorbs the forms of Ming Dynasty woodblock prints, arts and crafts, and theatre stages, and adopts the combination of woodblock overprinting and hand-painting to create a unique style that is distinctive, lively, joyful and auspicious, and rich in touching themes.
Underwater Cultural Heritage,Intangible Heritage
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.
The history of the Hakka language can be traced back to northern China, where the Hakka people are believed to have originated. The Hakka are a Han Chinese ethnic group who have lived in many different parts of China over the centuries, and their language has evolved and developed through their interactions with other cultures and languages. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the Hakka people began to migrate from northern to southern China, and they brought their language with them. Over the centuries, the Hakka language continued to evolve and develop, influenced by the local languages and cultures of the areas where the Hakka people lived. In the 19th century, many Hakka people emigrated from China to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world, and their language was carried with them to these new lands. Today, the Hakka language is spoken by millions of people around the world, and it is considered an important part of Chinese heritage. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the Hakka language has faced challenges in recent decades, as the number of speakers has declined and the language has been threatened by the spread of Mandarin, the official language of China. However, there are efforts underway to preserve and promote the Hakka language and culture, including the development of language education programs and the creation of Hakka cultural organizations. In conclusion, the Hakka language has a rich and fascinating history that reflects the cultural and linguistic interactions of the Hakka people over the centuries. It continues to be an important part of Chinese heritage and is celebrated by millions of people around the world.
Pixar’s Shrek (2001) is the most important piece of digital heritage from the early 2000s. One that defined the childhood of the late 90’s kids and the early to mid-2000s kids and includes jokes for both children and their parents, meaning its impact on generations is even wider. The movie did something revolutionary in that its dubbing voice actors for each country were actual recognizable actors from that country. Eugenio Derbez, the voice actor for Donkey in Mexican Spanish suggested they change the scripted jokes to match the country of origin as well. While Spanish is a language that impacts multiple countries, the accents, comedy, and colloquial references in Shrek is different in Mexican Spanish, Spain Spanish, and Colombian Spanish, for example. Shrek is emblematic of the Gen-Z fight for inclusivity and diversity. Pixar continued this practice with “Inside Out,” where the main character refuses to eat broccoli in the American version. However, this was changed for Japan, as kids there find green peppers more disgusting than broccoli, thus following in Shrek’s steps to better relate to its audiences. In 2020, the Library of Congress in the US elected the film to be inducted into its National Film Registry due to it being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” [7]. Their current preservation tactics include the studio’s submission of the film in 35mm format, along with any appropriate copyright. The Audio- Visual Conservation Centre itself is “space controlled to stay cool and dry” to preserve its digital copies of the film.
Dreamworks' Shrek (2001) is the most important piece of digital heritage from the early 2000s. One that defined the childhood of the late 90’s kids and the early to mid-2000s kids and includes jokes for both children and their parents, meaning its impact on generations is even wider. The movie did something revolutionary in that its dubbing voice actors for each country were actual recognizable actors from that country. Eugenio Derbez, the voice actor for Donkey in Mexican Spanish suggested they change the scripted jokes to match the country of origin as well. While Spanish is a language that impacts multiple countries, the accents, comedy, and colloquial references in Shrek is different in Mexican Spanish, Spain Spanish, and Colombian Spanish, for example. Shrek is emblematic of the Gen-Z fight for inclusivity and diversity. Pixar continued this practice with “Inside Out,” where the main character refuses to eat broccoli in the American version. However, this was changed for Japan, as kids there find green peppers more disgusting than broccoli, thus following in Shrek’s steps to better relate to its audiences. In 2020, the Library of Congress in the US elected the film to be inducted into its National Film Registry due to it being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” [7]. Their current preservation tactics include the studio’s submission of the film in 35mm format, along with any appropriate copyright. The Audio- Visual Conservation Centre itself is “space controlled to stay cool and dry” to preserve its digital copies of the film.
Sustainable Development Goal: Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Digital interpretation of the Camino de Santiago can promote sustainable tourism practices. Educational resources can highlight the importance of respecting local communities and the environment while supporting local businesses along the pilgrimage route. Hotspot: This hotspot would link to a webpage showcasing different routes of the Camino, practical information for pilgrims, and the cultural significance of this tradition. The page could also feature interviews with contemporary pilgrims and information about eco-friendly travel options.
Established organically through centuries of pilgrimage
Middle Ages (origins can be traced back to the 9th century)
This mural is a replica exhibit based on the original Buddhist wall paintings found in the Mogao Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, located near Dunhuang, China. The original murals were created between the 4th and 14th centuries, featuring rich iconography of Buddhist narratives, devotional figures, and multicultural artistic influences from the Silk Road. This replica was produced for educational and exhibition purposes to promote awareness of Dunhuang’s cultural significance. While the physical replica is movable, the original artworks are considered immovable cultural heritage and are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Generations of Buddhist monks and artisans along the Silk Road
The use of neon signs as an advertising method for shops increased post-war in the 1950s, alongside a boom in incoming migration and setting up of shops and stores. As business owners typically planned for their businesses to be passed on through generations, they were known to ‘invest a lot in getting a sign commissioned’ as it carried a lot of significance and identity. As the economy prospered in the later half of the 20th century, the signs became de rigueur in the urban cityscape – an icon in its own right, and inspiring many cultural references in movies and media. After the city’s handover to China in 1997, there have been tightening regulations on ‘unauthorized’ neon signs and enhanced safety regulations, with removal orders issued spiking in 2017-2021. As paperwork to appeal for authorization of the signs is complicated and upkeep of the signs get more expensive, more shopkeepers have elected to remove the signs in favor of switching to cheaper LED alternatives.
Neon Signs in Hong Kong - an increasingly lost part of history
The linked media shows a 2007 street view of Hong Kong at night along Portland street, with a plethora of signs: some LED, some neon. Neon signs enjoyed its heyday in Hong Kong during the later part of the 20th century, with most businesses using as a form of identity and advertisement. Estimates put an average of 120,000 signs at the end of 2010. After 2010, due to tightening government regulations ordering removal of signs that did not "meet government regulations", their numbers have plummeted to less than 400. After the city’s handover to China in 1997, there have been tightening regulations on ‘unauthorized’ neon signs and enhanced safety regulations, with removal orders issued spiking in 2017-2021. As paperwork to appeal for authorization of the signs is complicated and upkeep of the signs get more expensive, more shopkeepers have elected to remove the signs in favor of switching to cheaper LED alternatives.
A 2007 street view of Hong Kong at night along Portland street shows a plethora of signs: some LED, some neon. Neon signs enjoyed its heyday in Hong Kong during the later part of the 20th century, with most businesses using as a form of identity and advertisement. Estimates put an average of 120,000 signs at the end of 2010. After 2010, due to tightening government regulations ordering removal of signs that did not "meet government regulations", their numbers have plummeted to less than 400.
The Peranakans are culturally distinct descendants of immigrants to the Malay Archipelago in Southeast Asia. A large trading hub since the 15th century, the Straits of Malacca has seen foreign traders to the area, many of which settle down and intermix with the local communities, establishing communities and businesses. Traditionally English-educated and intermixing well across communities – in part due to practicality and business necessity in Singapore’s colonial past – they they evolved to play an influential role in the economic and sociopolitical development of early Singapore. The unique intermarriage of cultures between the root cultures of the immigrants and that of the local Malays gave rise to a distinct hybrid culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with its own language, culture, apparel, and food. Like many smaller cultures of smaller communities, the Peranakans have been at risk of disappearing in today’s modern world. Globalization has reduced the distinctiveness and differences between communities and cultures, and younger descendants may no longer be taught about their roots and cultural practices.
The Herculaneum Scrolls are ancient scrolls discovered in Herculaneum in the 18th century AD. The scrolls were buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. Now these ancient scrolls have been severely carbonized and are very fragile. If they are not careful, they will be completely broken, making it difficult for people to open these scrolls. In the early days, the scrolls were even thought to be carbonized tree branches and were abandoned or even burned. Currently, researchers are using a variety of methods to try to unfold The Herculaneum Scrolls, even using the latest three-dimensional scanning technology and artificial intelligence algorithms, and have made a lot of progress. Years of research revealed that the scrolls came from ancient libraries and contained many ancient Greek philosophical texts, including the works of ancient Greek philosophers and poets.Preserving The Herculaneum Scrolls can provide researchers and the public with an important resource for learning about ancient cultures and languages, and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal SDG 4 quality education and SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Fika is a Swedish intangible cultural heritage. Although there is no direct translation from Swedish to English that perfectly describes what Fika means, it can be loosely translated to 'coffee break'. However, Fika means a lot more than just having a coffee break, with the socialising aspect forming a very important part. Every day, Swedes take a Fika break where they have a coffee with friends, family or colleagues; often with something sweet on the side. It's a break from work, school, or any other obligations that people may have, where they can sit down and have a calm moment with a coffee and a friend. It's valuable in many different ways, not only for establishing a work-life balance, but also for maintaining one's well-being and improving productivity levels.
Midsummer, or 'Midsommar' as the Swedes call it, is a Swedish intangible cultural heritage. It is one of the most popular holidays in Sweden and takes place on the weekend closest to summer solstice, which occurs at the end of June. This is a full-day celebration of the longest day of the year with friends and/or family. Traditionally, the celebration involves singing and dancing around a maypole that that has been decorated with flowers and leaves (also called a 'Midsommarstång' in Swedish). Midsummer is valuable in many ways. Firstly, it is a significant social event where friends and family can get together and enjoy each other's company. Secondly, it is a way for Swedish people to connect with their heritage and pass down traditions to future generations. Finally, it is a celebration spent outdoors where people can connect with nature through celebrating the longest day of the year.
The Six Nations Rugby Championship is an annual rugby competition between Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, France and Italy. The Six Nations is a valuable intangible cultural heritage for many reasons. Firstly, it is a very important event for all six nations involved, as well as for rugby fans worldwide. Secondly, the Six Nations is a source of national pride for the participating countries. Finally, the championship is a significant social event, bringing people together from different backgrounds and cultures to celebrate their shared love for rugby.
The art of Chinese seal carving is developed from the traditional Chinese seal technique. In ancient times, it was used to exercise and grant the power of state institutions and to prove personal identity. The earliest seals unearthed so far belong to the Shang Dynasty more than 3,000 years ago. During the Spring and Autumn Period, seals were widely used in society. The material used in ancient Chinese seals is mainly metal, which is divided into calligraphy (mainly seal script) and engraving (including chiseling and casting). The seal cutting has a history of nearly 500 years since the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Ming and Qing schools of seal cutting developed from ancient seals, which laid a good foundation for the art of seal cutting with its unique style and high artistry. So seal carved art history can be traced back to 2000 years ago in the spring and autumn period and the warring states period (770 ~ 221 BC). Since the 13th century AD, literati and artists began to use stone to engraved seals. They used various knife handling techniques in their creation, forming different artistic styles, and numerous art schools such as "Anhui School" and "Zhejiang School" emerged. Seal works created by artists are called seal cutting. Since then, many famous seal cutters have emerged in the history of seal cutting, such as Wen Peng, Ding Jing, Deng Shiru, Wu Changshuo, Qi Baishi and so on.
Chengdu sugar painting is a unique traditional handicraft that integrates folk arts and crafts with cuisine. It is mainly popular in Chengdu, Sichuan Province and its surrounding areas. In the past, it was also called inverted sugar cake, sugar baba and sugar lantern shadow in Sichuan. Painting with melted sugar juice was widely popular in Chengdu, Sichuan Province and the surrounding cities and villages. Sugar painting originated around the 16th century. In the court custom of the Ming Dynasty, when offering sacrifices to ancestors in the New Year, the families of senior officials often used molds to print sugar lions, sugar tigers and famous scholars and warriors as sacrifices. Later, this skill was introduced to the people and gradually evolved into sugar painting. During the creation process, the artist sits in front of a sugar painting, holding a spoon in his hand. After a short thought, the artist quickly sprinkles the liquid sugar in the spoon onto the marble slab, which is as smooth as a mirror. The coagulated liquid sugar forms magical pictures of animals, flowers, insects, dramatic characters... When the fresh sugar paintings solidified, the artist used a bamboo skewer to glue each piece of work and pick it up to complete a piece of work. It is both ornamental and edible, integrated material and spiritual culture enjoyment into one.
Papyrus manufacturing techniques were lost a long time ago. The earliest use of papyrus dates back to 3000 BC; it was widely used before 8th century. In Europe, papyrus was gradually replaced by more durable kraft and parchment paper. Later, the Arabs spread the techniques of paper making from the East to the Mediterranean, papyrus was thus replaced by papers and its manufacturing method died out. As the climate gradually changed, the wild sedges gradually disappeared in the Nile Valley. It wasn't until 1962 that an Egyptian engineer, Hassan Ragab, restored the technique for making papyrus, using the papyrus that had been brought back to Egypt from France in 1872. Today, papyrus is mostly sold as handicrafts. Papyrus has extraordinary significance in ancient Egyptian culture. The ancient Egyptians believed that after death the souls of those who were judged could reach the heavenly land - Sekhet-Aaru, the "Field of Reeds”. The dead must be buried with the Book of the Dead, which was made of papyrus, as a guide to the afterlife. Today, due to climate change and the completion of the Aswan Dam, it's hard to see papyrus growing all over the Nile Valley again. Papyrus manufacturing techniques and existing papyrus documents are also in urgent need of protection. Several digital museums of papyrus documents have been created, like Turin Papyrus Online Platform (TPOP). In addition, the Egyptian government has taken steps to add papyrus production to the United Nations list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Mazu belief and customs are a set of traditions and practices that are centered around the worship of Mazu, a Chinese sea goddess. Mazu belief is particularly popular among coastal communities in Southern China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. The Mazu belief and customs are rich in heritage and have been passed down from generation to generation for over a thousand years. The Mazu belief and customs are valuable as they are integral to the cultural identity of coastal communities, provide insights into the relationship between people and the sea, and represent a unique blend of different beliefs and practices.
Yixian Lantern Festival Cultural Landscape
Located in the heart of Yixian County in Anhui Province, the historic ancient street is a living embodiment of traditional Huizhou culture. Especially captivating at night, the street transforms into a glowing corridor of lanterns—delicate, pink-hued lights that hang rhythmically from traditional Anhui-style grey-tiled buildings. These lanterns are more than decorative; they symbolize peace, reunion, and the continuity of local traditions. The street layout, architectural style, and community life remain largely preserved, reflecting centuries of Hui merchant culture and Confucian values. Digital documentation through photography, virtual night tours, and 3D mapping can preserve the night-time ambiance of this street for future generations. The project contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting cultural identity, safeguarding living heritage, and encouraging responsible tourism.
The ancient streets of Yixian County, located in Anhui Province, China, come alive every year with a vibrant Lantern Festival that illuminates the historic Huizhou-style buildings. During the festival, hundreds of handmade lanterns—crafted in traditional forms and materials—are displayed along narrow stone-paved streets, transforming the town into a glowing corridor of cultural expression. These lanterns carry deep symbolic meaning, representing prosperity, reunion, and ancestral respect, while embodying the artistic craftsmanship passed down through generations. The festival fuses tangible and intangible heritage: the fixed architectural setting of Yixian’s grey-walled, tile-roofed buildings and the living cultural practice of lantern-making, storytelling, and communal celebration. Digital heritage tools—such as nighttime 360° mapping, oral history recordings, and augmented reality projections—can capture the multi-sensory experience of this event and ensure its transmission to younger audiences. This project supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, as it promotes local identity, heritage-based tourism, and the preservation of community traditions.
The Gayer-Anderson Cat is one of the most iconic examples of ancient Egyptian bronze sculpture, dating back to the Late Period (circa 600 BCE). This life-sized cat statue, housed in the British Museum, was dedicated to the goddess Bastet—protector of women, fertility, and home. The statue is richly adorned, featuring golden nose rings, earrings, and a scarab necklace, reflecting both the sacred symbolism and the aesthetic refinement of the time. Named after Major Robert Grenville Gayer-Anderson, who donated the statue in 1939, it stands today as a symbol of ancient Egyptian religion and artistic craftsmanship. Digital technologies such as 3D scanning, virtual exhibition, and AR exploration allow audiences worldwide to appreciate its intricate details and historical context without risking damage to the original. This project supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing cultural understanding, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by promoting dialogue on ethical collection and museum transparency.
The Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 1500s, is considered the most famous painting in the world. The painting depicts a young woman with an intriguing smile and is currently housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Millions of people visit the Louvre each year, and it is estimated that 80% of them visit for the Mona Lisa itself. An exemplification of the Italian Renaissance, the painting became globally known after it was stolen twice, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While extremely valuable, this painting is now the property of France and has been in the Louvre since 1797. This moveable heritage addresses Quality Education 4.7 and Climate Action 13.
The Mona Lisa, arguably the most famous painting in the world, resides in the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. Painted by Leonardo da Vinci, this enigmatic portrait of Lisa Gherardini captivates viewers with her subtle smile and mysterious gaze. The painting's exquisite details, including its use of sfumato technique and lifelike portrayal, have earned it a revered status in the art world. Protected behind bulletproof glass and surrounded by throngs of admirers, the Mona Lisa continues to fascinate and inspire countless individuals from around the globe. Digital interpretation of the Mona Lisa addresses several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By leveraging digital platforms, it promotes quality education (SDG 4) by offering insights into the artwork's historical context and artistic significance. Furthermore, it contributes to sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) by reducing the need for physical travel to museums, thereby mitigating carbon emissions. Additionally, it supports industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9) by driving technological advancements in the cultural sector.
Mona Lisa, also known as "La Gioconda," is a renowned oil painting created by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. Crafted in the early 16th century, it stands as one of da Vinci's masterpieces and one of the most famous and enigmatic artworks in the world. In the painting, a mysterious woman is depicted with a serene and inscrutable expression, her smile seeming to endure through the ages, inviting contemplation. Her eyes appear to gaze into the distance, evoking a sense of depth and mystery, leaving viewers intrigued by the enigma of her inner thoughts. Draped in a simple, dark garment and adorned with an elegant headscarf, she is set against a backdrop of hazy mountains and lakes. The Mona Lisa's smile is regarded as one of da Vinci's remarkable artistic achievements, showcasing his unparalleled skill in capturing human emotions and expressions. Yet, the true intention behind the painting and the identity of the Mona Lisa remain subjects of historical and artistic speculation, adding to the allure and fascination surrounding her image.
Tibetan Buddhism is the most widespread religion in Tibet. Musical chanting, most often in Tibetan or Sanskrit, is an integral part of the religion. These chants are complex, often recitations of sacred texts or in celebration of various festivals. Yang chanting, performed without metrical timing, is accompanied by resonant drums and low, sustained syllables. Individual schools such as the Gelug, Nyingma, Sakya and Kagyu, and even individual monasteries, maintain their own chant traditions. Each instrument mimics the sound of an animal, the drums being the footsteps of elephants and the horns mimic bird calls.
Mazu is a goddess situated believed mainly by the people in the southeast of China. Mazu was originally named Lin Mo or Lin Mo Niang, born in the Putian city Fujian province. In the legend, she helped save people in peril of the sea, kills the monsters in the sea, and helped the injured people. Tons of historical stories recorded her stories, and from the Song dynasty to the Qing dynasty, Mazu was given several honour titles from the emperors. Gradually, she became a belief of the fishermen, businessmen, and seashore people to keep them rid of natural disasters. Nowadays, Mazu is still a common belief in many provinces in China and even some people in southeast Asia. On every 23rd March of the lunar calendar, which is the Mazu’s birthday, thousands of people will come to Meizhou island, which is believed by the born place of Mazu, to celebrate the birth of Mazu. The magical thing is that generally, on Mazu's birthday, Meizhou island will always rain. People believe that it is a blessing from Mazu.
Rwanda Memorial sites of the Tutsi Genocide: Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi and Bisesero
In Rwanda, four stark memorials serve as chilling reminders of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi. These sites are: Nyamata, Murambi, Gisozi, and Bisesero. In 2023, these sites were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Nyamata and Murambi were places of refuge that turned into killing grounds. Gisozi, located in Kigali, is the largest memorial, containing the final resting place of over 250,000 victims. Bisesero stands apart, commemorating the resistance of Tutsis who fought back against the killers. These Rwandan memorials serve as burial grounds and powerful tools for education, remembrance, and reconciliation. They ensure that the voices of the victims are not silenced, and the horrors of the past are never forgotten. Contribution to SDGs: The primary Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) addressed by digital interpretation in the UNESCO Rwanda Tutsi Genocide Memorial Sites is SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Target 16.a: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. Additionally, digital interpretation aligns with aspects of SDG 4 by providing educational resources and promoting lifelong learning. Interactive exhibits and online resources enhance visitors understanding of the genocide and its historical context.
Ta Moko is the traditional tattooing practice of the Māori people of Aotearoa (New Zealand), distinguished by intricate spiral patterns carved into the skin. Unlike decorative tattoos, Ta Moko is deeply symbolic, representing one's genealogy, social status, tribal affiliations, and personal achievements. Historically, the practice involved chiseling the skin with uhi (carving tools), leaving textured grooves. While Ta Moko declined during colonization, it has seen cultural revival since the late 20th century, especially among younger Māori reclaiming their identity. Today, Ta Moko is considered a living expression of Indigenous knowledge, cultural resilience, and ancestral storytelling.
The Magna Carta, also known as the Chapter of Freedom, is a historical document signed by King John in England in 1215. It is regarded as an important cornerstone of the modern rule of law and democracy. The Magna Carta mainly stipulates the principles that the power of the king is subject to the law, the protection of free trade and personal freedom, and emphasises that even the monarch is not above the law. In addition, the Magna Carta also established legal principles such as the ‘presumption of innocence’ and ‘due process’, which had a profound impact on the subsequent constitutional system and international law. Today, the spirit of the Magna Carta is still widely quoted and is a symbol of the development of the rule of law and democracy worldwide.
The Nok Terracotta stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Nok people of Nigeria, dating back to 500 B.C.E. Crafted with clay, these sculptures represent a significant milestone in early pottery art within sub-Saharan Africa. These artefacts offer invaluable insights into the skilled craftsmanship and cultural traditions of the ancient 'Nok' city. These sculptures with distinct triangular or oval shapes on human faces have emerged as iconic symbols of Nok Art, showcasing the culture's unique stylistic elements. Digital interpretation efforts, including virtual reality experiences, immersive, and interactive learning, have provided unprecedented access to these artefacts for global audience, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, heritage preservation, and promoting sustainable development. This engagement advances SDG 4.7's goal of ensuring that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development. However, despite their historical significance, Nok Terracotta faces notable threats to its preservation. Factors such as environmental degradation, including erosion and climate change, pose significant risks to the integrity of these artefacts. Additionally, looting and illegal trade of cultural heritage items contribute to the loss and destruction of Nok Terracotta sculptures.
Embroidery, a traditional craft, is a decorative art form involving the embellishment of fabric using needle and thread. Known for its detailed and colorful designs, embroidery varies widely across cultures, each with its unique techniques and motifs. In China, famous styles like Suzhou, Hunan, Sichuan, and Guangdong embroidery each offer distinctive aesthetics, from the delicate, vibrant patterns of Suzhou to the bold, three-dimensional effects of Hunan. Embroidery serves not just as a form of artistic expression but also plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, contributing to economic empowerment, particularly for women, and promoting sustainable practices in the textile industry.
Culture,Movable Cultural Heritage,Tourism
The Colloseum is a World Heritage site, one of the most important buildings from the Roman era
The Primavera is a tempera painting created by Sandro Botticelli in 1482. It is one of the most representative artwork of the Italian Renaissance and symbol of the prosperity of Florence during the Medici rule. It is one of the most popular paintings of the Western World. Along with the Birth of Venus, the Primavera succeeds in demonstrating the expertise of Botticelli in the use of colour, lines and shaded forms. The meaning of the Primavera is still unknown. However, art experts have attempted at guessing it. Originally, the painting was created in the honour of the wedding of Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco, Lorenzo de Medici's cousin. Nevertheless, the painting is not only a mere celebration of a wedding as it is demonstrated by the presence of numerous allegories and metaphor that link to the Greek and Roman mythology. For example, two Roman gods, Venus and Mercury, are depicted. This painting succeeds in showing Botticelli's great knowledge of classical literature and philosophy.
The Primavera is a tempera painting created by Sandro Botticelli in 1482. It is one of the most representative artwork of the Italian Renaissance and symbol of the prosperity of Florence during the Medici rule. It is one of the most popular paintings of the Western World. Along with the Birth of Venus, the Primavera succeeds in demonstrating the expertise of Botticelli in the use of colour, lines and shaded forms. The meaning of the Primavera is still unknown. However, art experts have attempted at guessing it. Originally, the painting was created in the honour of the wedding of Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco, Lorenzo de Medici's cousin. Art experts believe that the painting is not only a mere celebration of the wedding, even though the Medici family is depicted, but it is an acknowledgement of Sandro Botticelli's vast knowledge of the Greek and Roman mythology, classic literature and philosophy. For example, Venus and Mercury, two Roman gods, are depicted.
Gaelic or Gàidhlig is an indigenous Celtic language spoken in Scotland, mainly in the Highlands and the Islands. The Gaelic language and literature embody a heritage of identity and culture springing from a centuries-old tradition, folklore, and collective memory.This language acts as a medium through which the people of Scotland can guard their intangible heritage that enhances and promotes their unique sense of cultural identity.
Scottish Gaelic Song: Òran Mòr
Òran Mòr ("Great Song") refers to a body of traditional Scottish Gaelic songs passed down through oral tradition for centuries in the Highlands and Islands. These songs reflect the emotional, social, and historical identity of Gaelic-speaking communities. They range from laments to love songs, work chants to epic ballads, often sung unaccompanied or with minimal instrumentation. Today, organizations and cultural initiatives actively work to record, perform, and teach these songs to younger generations. This intangible cultural heritage contributes to the preservation of the endangered Scottish Gaelic language and the revitalization of Highland identity in Scotland.
Tartan is a woven cloth consists of horizontal and vertical bands in various colours. Weaving tartan is a craft that requires concentration, great timing and counting. The digital preservation includes tartan brand’s youtube channel about stories behind making tartan, artifacts in the museum, famous tartan fabric shops, and several archive websites that document the types of tartan. Besides the general exhibits or archival collection of textile histories in the National Museum of Scotland and the National Library of Scotland, The Scottish Tartans Museum focus on the history and development of tartan and the kilt, with over 500 samples of tartan. Visitors can view the exhibits online and search according to name or type. Fabric shops including Robert Noble, DC Dalgliesh, Ingles Buchan and Lochcarron not only sell the cloth, but also gives distinctive recording about tartan.
Via Francigena is a historic pilgrim’s route from Canterbury to Rome. First travelled by Sigeric the Serious, Archbishop of Canterbury in the year 990, this historic pilgrimage route is now travelled by around 50,000 hikers yearly. The route begins at Canterbury cathedral, traveling to Dover and across the English Channel. The route continues through France into Switzerland, crossing the alps at the Great St Bernard Pass. After crossing the Italian border, the route continues down the eastern side of Italy and finishes at Rome. The route is mostly footpaths and rough trails, with substantial elevation change in some stages. This difficult terrain promotes SDG 3: good health and wellbeing. Walking is a far more environmentally responsible mode of transport than air travel, car or train, so as well as benefiting pilgrims traveling on the route, promoting walking tourism (which the Via Francigena is an example of) can help contribute to SDG 13: climate action.