The Forbidden City was built in 1406 and completed in 1420. It is located in the center of the central axis of Beijing. Now as a museum, the Palace Museum houses many court objects of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a national first-class museum in China. There were altogether 24 emperors in the Palace Museum, who witnessed many years of vicissitudes. Many countries have also broadcast documentaries about the Forbidden City, to show people the history and culture of the Forbidden City, art culture, value culture and so on.
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 Palace Museum is a museum located in Beijing, the capital of China, which was once the working and living place of the Ming and Qing emperors, and its collections are mainly based on the imperial palaces of the Ming and Qing dynasties and their collections. The Forbidden City has great significance for China and the world. The history of the Forbidden City is the embodiment of traditional Chinese political civilization, encompassing 500 years of Ming and Qing dynasty history. The architecture of the Forbidden City is a collection of the cultures of all Chinese nationalities, an important part of the diversity of world civilizations, and a major role in promoting the building of a community of human destiny.
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, China, stands as a testament to ancient Chinese culture and architectural prowess. Built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it is one of the most extensive and well-preserved complexes of wooden structures worldwide, spanning approximately 72 hectares and boasting over 9,999 rooms. As a pinnacle of digital heritage, the Forbidden City has embraced modern technology to preserve and showcase its historical significance. Through digital archives, virtual tours, and augmented reality experiences, visitors can explore its intricate architecture, exquisite artwork, and priceless artifacts from anywhere in the world. This integration of digital innovation with cultural heritage not only enhances accessibility but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of China's rich history. The Forbidden City thus stands not only as a symbol of China's past grandeur but also as a beacon of digital heritage, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
法租界霞飞路巡捕房 淮海中路235号。 Former French concession. No. 235 Huaihai Middle Road, Xiafei Road, French Concession.
Former Yamen Building of Kowloon Walled City, Kowloon Walled City Park (Hong Kong)
The restored former yamen building of Kowloon Walled City in Kowloon Walled City Park, Hong Kong.
A collaborative project with the West Highland Museum, one of the oldest museums in the Highlands. Fort William is a town in the western Scottish Highlands, on the shores of Loch Linnhe. Despite the Jacobites outnumbering the Fort Garrison, the siege on the Fort during the Jacobite rising of 1745 was unsuccessful. Later, the Fort served as a disembarkation point for those travelling to America as a result of the Highland Clearances. The fort was sold by the War Office in 1864, and the barracks within the fort were converted into tenant houses. This was later followed by compulsory purchase by the North Railway Company in the late 19th century. Gradually, the fort was demolished in the early to mid-20th century, with the remaining walls being knocked down in 1975.
Compilation of historic Images with descriptions by Dr Bess Rhodes.
Forteviot was once a Royal Pictish Kingdom. It is where King Kenneth McAlpin united the gaels and picts. This is a reconsturction of a cemetery created by the picts. The Picts created their cemetery a short distance away from an older ceremonial site, probably reflecting the continued imortance of this location.
A photograph showing the whole of the Forth Bridge from a diagonal onlook position on the banks of the Forth of Firth, on a sunny but mildly cloudy day.
A black and white photo from the late 1800s showing the Forth Bridge under construction.
The Forth Bridge is a railway cantilever bridge across the Firth of Forth, west of Edinburgh. It is a piece of tangible, immovable heritage and represents a huge achievement in human engineering, while also being an important part of the rail network, as it has been since it was opened on the 4th of March 1890. Designed by engineers Sir John Fowler and Sir Benjamin Baker, it is 2.5km long including the approaches and contains 3 separate cantilever structures holding 2 spans of 520m each. Upon opening, this was the longest span of a cantilever design and remains the second longest span today. It was the first major structure in Britain to be built of steel and was named as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2015. 78 people are known to have died working on the construction of the bridge and the Briggers Memorial remembers them with a monument at both ends of the bridge. Digital interpretation of the Forth Bridge will aid the protection of the heritage surrounding it, contributing to Goal 11 (11.4) through the strengthening of cultural heritage. It also supports 11.2 through promotion of public transport as it is a key part of rail infrastructure.
Fortifications on Portobelo - San Lorenzo
The Portobelo - San Lorenzo fortifications are located on the east side of Panamá. They were built during the 17th and 18th centuries in order to defend Spanish ships and protect transatlantic trade in the Caribbean. These fortifications form what is essentially a fortified town, with an architecture that resembles that of the medieval period. These military structures were part of a more extensive defence system that was also present in Mexico, Colombia and Cuba. During the time it remained operative the fortifications were destroyed and rebuilt, also adapted to the particularity of the environment where it is located. The ruins tell a story of strength and adaptation to the environment currently affected by erosion.
French concession is a geographical area with Sycamore-styled roads and European styled buildings that make up the historical French-administered part in Shanghai, from 1849 to 1946. Concessions were the lands conceded to individual governments, which nowadays the area turned into commercial shops, and many buildings are under municipal protection. They are seen as the cultural symbol of Shanghai, who have witnessed the historical unrest and city change.
French concession is a geographical area with Sycamore-styled roads and European styled buildings that make up the historical French-administered part in Shanghai, from 1849 to 1946. Concessions were the lands conceded to individual governments, which nowadays the area turned into commercial shops, and many buildings are under municipal protection. They are seen as the cultural symbol of Shanghai, who have witnessed the historical unrest and city change. There is no online systematic archive for the area nor the buildings, even they are enlisted as ‘protected building’. If general public are interested in the history, internet search or physically talking to one of the residents or someone who lived here will the choice.
Life in Medieval Scotland in the 16th Century.
Front View of Dizang Hall, Jiuhua Mountain, China
The Flesh-Body Hall (Roushen Baodian) of Jiuhua Mountain, also known as the Dizang Hall, enshrines the mummified body of the Tang Dynasty monk Kim Qiaojue, revered as the incarnation of Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva. After practicing for 75 years at Jiuhua, his body remained intact after death and became a central object of veneration. Built in the Qing Dynasty, the hall is a masterpiece of traditional Hui-style architecture, featuring curved eaves, intricate wood carvings, and symbolic decorative elements. It is one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists across China. The red lanterns and the Chinese national flag in front of the temple represent the blending of ancient religious devotion and modern cultural identity. This site holds not only deep spiritual meaning but also tangible historical and architectural value. Digital preservation of the temple—through 3D scanning, virtual walkthroughs, and annotated interpretation—can help foster global understanding of Chinese Buddhism while contributing to the sustainable safeguarding of immovable heritage.
Description: Heritage - Fujian Lacquerware is a traditional Chinese art form originating in Fujian Province, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate design. Fujian lacquerware uses raw lacquer, a natural resin obtained from the lacquer tree, as its primary material. The lacquer is applied in multiple layers and then polished to create a durable, glossy surface that is resistant to moisture and wear. The art of lacquerware includes a variety of objects such as furniture, boxes, trays, and decorative items. Climate Threats - Due to the region's subtropical maritime climate, Fujian Province is subject to high humidity and frequent rainfall. Over time, these conditions can cause damage to Fujian Lacquerware by promoting mold growth, causing the lacquer to crack or peel, or affecting the structural integrity of wooden components. Additionally, climate change-induced increases in temperature and humidity can accelerate the deterioration process. Proper storage, display, and maintenance are essential to preserving these valuable cultural artifacts.
Description: Heritage - Fujian Puppetry, also known as the Min Puppetry or Marionette, is a traditional Chinese performing art that originated in Fujian Province. This art form has a history of more than 2,000 years and is deeply rooted in the local culture. Fujian Puppetry encompasses various performance styles, including string puppetry, rod puppetry, and glove puppetry. Performances often convey historical events, legends, and moral stories through intricate movements, music, and singing.
The Fujian Tulou consist of 46 ancient buildings scattered in Fujian and Guangzhou Province of China. Tulou is a particular circle or triangle shape building that originated from the Song and Yuan dynasty. It was developed and fully built during the Ming and the republic of China period. The oldest Tulou is over 600 years old, and the youngest Tulou is only 30 years since it built. In Chinese, "Tu" means soil, and "Lou" means building. The material of Tulou is based on stone and soil-applied with bamboo woods. Ancient people built it around the rice field and tea field. The usage of Tulou is as a dwelling house, for a single Tulou will allow around 800 residents to live in. Besides, it is also acting as a protection mechanism from the bandits. The solid walls and the circle shape without too many windows outside will perfectly protect residents from the bullets attack. Now Tulou is still a life circle for the local residents, the culture and the tradition inside of Tulou are still alive.
Fujian Tulou, also known as the Hakka earthen buildings, are a unique architectural style of residential buildings found in Fujian Province. These structures, which date back to the 12th century, are characterized by their circular or rectangular shape and thick earth walls. Designed for communal living and protection, these buildings can house up to 800 people. They have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites for their architectural, historical, and cultural significance.
Description: Heritage - Fujian Tulou, also known as the Hakka earthen buildings, are a unique architectural style of residential buildings found in Fujian Province. These structures, which date back to the 12th century, are characterized by their circular or rectangular shape and thick earth walls. Designed for communal living and protection, these buildings can house up to 800 people. They have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites for their architectural, historical, and cultural significance. Climate - Fujian Province has a subtropical maritime climate, with mild winters, hot summers, and abundant rainfall. The region experiences an annual average temperature of 17-21°C (62.6-69.8°F) and an annual precipitation of 1,400-2,000 mm.
Fujian Tulou, a remarkable example of rammed-earth architecture, is predominantly found in China’s Fujian province, with origins tracing back to the 10th century. Constructed on solid stone foundations, these massive, fortress-like dwellings are built from compacted raw earth, reinforced with bamboo and wood. Their ingenious design ensures durability, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer, while also offering exceptional defensive capabilities—perfectly suited for the mountainous terrain they inhabit. As a testament to traditional Chinese village culture, Tulou reflects the harmony between human settlement and nature, with its layout, site selection, and material use embodying the sustainability and ingenuity of past societies. Recognizing its cultural and historical significance, UNESCO inscribed Fujian Tulou as a World Heritage Site in 2008. To safeguard this architectural legacy and promote sustainable tourism in line with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 3D scanning and virtual tourism become invaluable tools. High-resolution 3D models enable precise documentation and aid in restoration efforts, while VR experiences allow global audiences to explore Tulou remotely, minimizing the environmental impact of mass tourism. These digital innovations not only enhance heritage conservation but also foster local engagement, ensuring the enduring legacy of Fujian Tulou for future generations.
Göbekli Tepe is a Neolithic archeological site near the city of Şanlıurfa in Eastern Turkey. The site dates back to between 9500 and 8000 BC and is one of the oldest megalithic structures in the world. The site consists of several large circular structures supported by massive stone pillars, most of which were decorated with anthropomorphic details, clothes, animals. Göbekli Tepe was first mentioned in 1963 in survey conducted by Istanbul University and the University of Chicago, but the importance of the site was understood much later, in 1990s, when Klaus Schmidt suspected that the stone slabs found on the site weren`t graves. His theory was supported by further excavations that he continued to make until his death in 2014. Göbekli Tepe was declared a UNESCO world heritage sight in 2018 for its value as "one of the first manifestations of human-made monumental architecture"
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.
Gagaku, meaning "elegant music," is a traditional form of Japanese court music and dance with a rich history dating back centuries. This ancient art form encompasses a diverse range of instruments, dance styles, and repertoire, reflecting the cultural influences that shaped Japan throughout its history. Gagaku performances combine music played on instruments like the sho (bamboo flute) and hichiriki (oboe) with elegant, restrained dance movements. The costumes, often vibrant and elaborately decorated, further enhance the visual spectacle. Traditionally performed for the Imperial Court, Gagaku is now also presented in concert halls and festivals, offering a glimpse into Japan's refined cultural heritage.
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 municipality has experience of developing the area for a.o. tourism, often connected to WW 1. We try to push other values that promote the area, not the least to attract people to live and work here. We work closely with the annual folk music festival and other artist activities. Our mission is to market the municipality with a wide range of themes and work on projects that promote the rural silence, pristine nature and cultural heritage with roots in prehistory, in pottery and in art.
Middelburg is experienced in encouraging (young) people to start new companies, to stimulate cross-sectoral cooperation and explore new product and market combinations. The town works closely together with the Roosevelt University; both collaborate with the Erasmus University Rotterdam and the Association of City Management. Town, province, Scalda and Rabobank, started DOK 4, an incubator for innovative techno and creative start-ups. New entrepreneurs get guidance and coaching.
Audio description of Gereza Fort by Allen Rwaich.
The Old Fort or Gereza (prison) in Kilwa Kisiwani situated along the coast of southern Tanzania was built by the Portuguese in 1505. This build which has two towers were meant to protect the interest of Portuguese after they had conquered Kilwa during the early 16th century. However, the Portuguese did not stay long, and they abandoned it within 10years of habitation leaving it for use by the Arabs. The gereza is one of the still very firm monuments in Kilwa Kisiwani making a World Heritage Site since 1981. Currently a part of this building serves as a community museum. The ruins of the Gereza Fort are situated on Kilwa Kisiwani, a small, low-lying island off the East coast of Tanzania. It represents one of the two remains of the largest East African ports from the 11th to the 16th. The evidence of the dominance of Swahili coastal culture, the Islamisation of East Africa and the extensive and prosperous Indian Ocean trade networks. Today, the remains originally built of coral stones bonded together with lime mortar located along the coast are critically exposed to flooding, erosion from storm surges and encroaching (mangrove) vegetation. On several locations along the shore of Kilwa Kisiwani, artefacts (beads, coins, ceramics, etc.) are being eroded by the sea-water movements. Only a small part of the once extensive cities has been excavated, and the remains could be lost before they have ever been recorded if rising sea levels flood the islands. This means that communities would have to move, and their way of life, cultural traditions and practices would be lost forever. The site also houses one of the longest-established Islamic education centres on the east coast of Africa. Flooding and collapse of structures would mean relocation for the school. The remains in immediate structural vulnerability include the Great Mosque, the palace of Husuni Kubwa and the Portuguese Fort. Within the environment, rising sea level will also mean contamination of groundwater thus affecting trees such as the baobab that represents the spiritual well-being of the local people. Tanzania is rich in archaeological sites throughout. With evidence of past prehistoric and historic activity preserved in structures and art, some of which has been investigated using the discipline of archaeology and represents a part of the archaeological record.
Geylang is a township and planning region in the tiny Asian island state of Singapore. Geylang as a place is a contradiction because it represents many of the quintessential things which makes Singapore Sinagpore. However, it also represents things which are totally at odds with most people’s perception of Singapore. For example, it is home to one of the earliest Malay settlements on the island; Geylang Serai. Malay, Indian, and Chinese entrepreneurs set up business here in the 19th century, and the area today is famous for its excellent food and wonderfully preserved traditional ‘shophouse’ architecture. Therefore, it is important historically and reflects the ethnic diversity of the current population. However, it is also a red-light district and considered to be one of the seediest areas of the otherwise sterile state.
The Great Wild Goose Pagoda, also known as the Great Cien Temple Pagoda, is located in the southern suburb of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, and is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture from the Chinese Tang Dynasty. It is famous for the story of the Tang Monk (Xuan Zang) who came to India to collect the scriptures. Here he presided over the temple, led the translation of Buddhist scriptures and founded a Buddhist sect. It houses a number of Buddhist classics, including the Mahaparinirvana Sutra, as well as various precious Buddha statues and relics. The most famous and magnificent Buddhist temple in Chang'an City of the Tang Dynasty, Ci'en Temple was built by royal decree during the Tang Dynasty, and was a temple built under the auspices of the royal family, with a distinguished status and grand scale.
Out of all of the many attractions that can be found in Northern Ireland, few, if any, are more famous and more renowned than the Giants Causeway. The Giant's Causeway is a location that would fit well into a fantasy novel or movie due to its alien appearance. It consists of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were formed in ancient times due to a number of volcanic eruptions that occurred over 50 million years ago. The name however comes from local legends that tell of an Irish giant who constructed the causeway, which was then destroyed when the giant got into a fight with another giant, who happened to be Scottish. In the current year, the Giants Causeway is a World Heritage site and receives hundreds of thousands of visitors a year and is often considered the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland.
This is an image of the Giant's Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast
The Giant’s causeway is the site of over 40,000 basalt columns protruding from the sea, all of which present viewers with a dramatic example of natural heritage in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The columns are the most characteristic feature of the site and are formed into regularly shaped polygonal columns of basalt in horizontal sections. The features of the Giant’s causeway and the causeway coast, and in particular the composition of the cliff faces, have made the site one of substantial geological importance as it provides insight into the sequences of the earth’s geological activity and history. In addition, the dramatic nature of the site has led to local legends and narratives of giants walking over the sea to Scotland. Consequently, the site may be said to be culturally important in another dimension – contributing to the intangible cultural heritage of Northern Ireland where it is seen as a national symbol. Climate change has adversely impacted the causeway through rising water levels and coastal erosion. If current climate trends continue it is projected that many of the columnar stones will be underwater by the middle of the century.
These are 360 Images of the Gidan makama museum. It contains a total of 28 images which include all 11 exhibitions in the museum. The Images were taken with a Nikon Keymission 360 Camera
Culture,Immovable Culture Heritage,Tourism
Gidan Makama is a traditional museum located in Kano State, Nigeria. The museum holds a collection of artefacts, artworks and libraries that showcase the history and culture of the people of Kano state and Northern Nigeria in general. The museum houses 11 galleries consisting of artefacts such as ancient tools, weapons and local materials that were used in anceint times for gathering food or protection. The museum was formerly a palace that housed the emirs of kano before the main palace in kano was built. It was then formally converted into a museum in the year 1953. The walls of the museum are made of hardened clay are about 600 years old. The same material is used in making another famous heritage referred to as the Kano wall.
Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
National Park Service (NPS), an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior. The NPS is responsible for the preservation and protection of national parks and other designated sites in the United States.
Located on the US-Canada border in northwest Montana, the park covers over 4,000 square kilometres, includes parts of two Rocky Mountain subranges and has over 130 named lakes, and is home to over a thousand species of plants and hundreds of animals. The mountains of Glacier National Park began forming 170 million years ago when ancient rocks were forced eastwards and overlain by younger rock formations. These sedimentary rocks, known as Lewisian retrogradational rocks, are considered to be the finest fossils of early life on Earth. Maps and photographs from the mid-20th century show that the 150 glaciers that existed in the park 100 years ago have in many cases retreated significantly, if not disappeared altogether. Based on warming trends in the early 21st century, scientists had estimated that the park's remaining glaciers would melt by 2020. However, a later estimate suggested that the glaciers could disappear by 2030.