The travel introduction video for Wuzhen
Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano located on the Japanese island of Honshu, with a summit elevation of 3,776.24 m (12,389 ft 3 in). It is the tallest mountain in Japan, the second-highest volcano located on an island in Asia (after Mount Kerinci on the Indonesian island of Sumatra), and seventh-highest peak of an island on Earth. Mount Fuji last erupted from 1707 to 1708. The mountain is located about 100 km (62 mi) southwest of Tokyo and is visible from the Japanese capital on clear days. Mount Fuji's exceptionally symmetrical cone, which is covered in snow for about five months of the year, is commonly used as a cultural icon of Japan and is frequently depicted in art and photography, as well as visited by sightseers, hikers and mountain climbers. Mount Fuji is one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains" along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku. It is a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and one of Japan's Historic Sites. It was added to the World Heritage List as a Cultural Site on June 22, 2013. According to UNESCO, Mount Fuji has "inspired artists and poets and been the object of pilgrimage for centuries". UNESCO recognizes 25 sites of cultural interest within the Mount Fuji locality. These 25 locations include the mountain and the Shinto shrine, Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha.
The Central Amazon Conservation Complex, spanning millions of hectares within Brazil's Amazon Rainforest, is a UNESCO World Heritage site crucial for its biodiversity and ecological importance. This diverse ecosystem, rich with endemic species such as the Amazon river dolphin and jaguar, plays a vital role in global climate regulation through carbon sequestration. Climate change poses significant threats to this area, including altered rainfall patterns and more frequent extreme weather events, endangering both biodiversity and local indigenous communities. The conservation efforts here align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 13 (Climate Action) by mitigating climate impact, SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by protecting diverse habitats, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international collaboration to enhance sustainability. These initiatives are essential for the Amazon’s ecological integrity and global environmental stability.
The Central Amazon Conservation Complex makes up the largest protected area in the Amazon Basin (over 6 million hectares) and is one of the planets richest regions in terms of biodiversity. It also includes an important sample of varzea ecosystems, igapó forests, lakes and channels which take the form of a constantly evolving aquatic mosaic that is home to the largest array of electric fish in the world.
This piece of immovable heritage dates back to the 2nd century. This cave system is located on the Fife Coastal path between Anstruther and Crail. The main structure of the Caiplie Caves is a result of sea erosion, whereas specific larger caves have also been shaped by the carvings of humans who found shelter in them over different time periods (Caiplie, “the Coves” | Canmore, n.d.). Preserving the Caves of Caiplie through digital methods would address the following Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations, 2015): - SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, specifically Target 11.4: "Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage." - SDG 4.7: Education and Awareness - SDG 15.1: Environmental Conservation - SDG 8.9: Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism
Sundarbans National Park, located at the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers on the Bay of Bengal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity and unique ecosystem. This extensive network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands of salt-tolerant mangrove forests is home to a wide variety of species, including the iconic Bengal tiger, which is specially adapted to the aquatic and challenging environment of the mangroves. The park plays a crucial role in protecting the region from natural disasters such as cyclones and tsunamis, showcasing its significant ecological services. However, it faces serious challenges from climate change, including rising sea levels and increased salinity, which threaten its delicate ecosystems and the species that depend on them. The conservation strategies implemented in Sundarbans are in alignment with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 13 (Climate Action) by addressing the impacts of climate change, SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by preserving its rich biodiversity, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cooperative international efforts for sustainable management.
The Notre Dame Cathedral, an enduring symbol of cultural heritage, faces mounting challenges from climate change. In response, digital interpretation emerges as a vital tool, echoing SDG13 - Climate Action. Through advanced monitoring systems, adaptive strategies, emission reduction initiatives, and compelling communication channels, digital technology fortifies the cathedral's resilience while amplifying the urgency of climate action. This convergence of heritage preservation and environmental advocacy fosters a global dialogue, inspiring collective efforts to mitigate climate risks. By harnessing digital platforms, the cathedral's narrative transcends its physical boundaries, galvanizing diverse communities worldwide to safeguard our shared heritage and combat the existential threat of climate change.
English: A Bengal Tiger checks out the conditions before getting into the canal at Sundarban Tiger Reserve, West Bengal, India.
SUNDARBAN Tour - The Natural Shield on Earth | Sundarban National Park Delta - Sundarban Documentary
Sundarban Tour in Sundarban National Park, Sundarban tour inside largest mangrove forest on earth and Sundarban Delta. But Sundarbans in West Bengal is now in high alert due to the rise of Sea water level. This is a long term effect of Global Warming. This Video is an inspirational film to motivate people to save nature, save Sundarban from being destroyed. Watch some epic Sundarban drone view here.
The Everglades National Park in Florida is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vast wetlands and rich biodiversity, including species like the American crocodile and Florida panther. This park is essential for water filtration and supply, and its ecosystems play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and flood control, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land). However, climate change poses significant threats through rising sea levels and increased hurricane activity, which disrupt the park’s natural balance. Efforts like the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan are underway to restore water flows and counteract environmental impacts, ensuring the park's resilience and sustainability.
The Egyptian pyramids are among the most famous and mysterious ancient structures in the world, representing the power of the ancient Egyptian pharaohs. Constructed during the period from the 27th to the 22nd century BCE, these immense triangular structures were intended as tombs for the pharaohs in order to perpetuate their power. They are not only architectural wonders but also symbols of the splendor of ancient Egyptian civilization and cultural heritage. Tourists and scholars flock to these mysterious structures, hoping to uncover the secrets behind 2 them and experience the glorious history of ancient Egypt. Through archaeology and technological advancements, our understanding of the interior of the pyramids continues to grow, aiming to reveal more of the mysteries of ancient Egyptian civilization. The historical value of the pyramids lies not only in their enormous size and exquisite craftsmanship but also in their role as carriers of the historical heritage and belief systems from ancient Egyptian dynasties to the modern world.
Highland Cattle is a breed of cattle originally from the Scottish Highlands and the Western Islands of Scotland. Highland cattle became an important part of the economy in Scotland and were used for their milk, meat, and fur (Highland Cows, 2019). Their double coat of hair makes them well suited for the weather conditions in the Highlands, which have made it difficult for other breeds to survive. The Highland Coo has become a symbol of Scotland's untamed beauty (lovetovisitscotland, 2023). Their distinctive look makes them popular among tourists, and many farms offer different activities where tourists can interact with the cows and even cuddle with them. Their cultural significance is also prominent as they are referenced in classic literature, folklore, as well as different cultural festivals and celebrations (Highland Cows in Literature and Folklore: Exploring Their Cultural Sig, 2023). Preserving Highland cows through digital methods would address Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations, 2015) such as: - SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, specifically Target 11.4: "Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage." - SDG 4.7: Education and Awareness - SDG 15.5: Biodiversity Conservation - SDG 2.4: Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture
The Crail Harbour served as a place for fishing and trading for centuries (Crail Community Partnership, n.d.). Not only did this harbour contribute to the economical development of the region, but its picturesque view has also made it the most photographed harbour in Scotland (Crail Museum, n.d.). Nowadays, it is only used by a few small boats for crab and lobster commercial fishing, and it continues to remain a popular tourist attraction (Crail, Shoregate, Harbour | Canmore, n.d.). Preserving the Crail Harbour as an immovable heritage through digital methods would address Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations, 2015) such as - SDG 11.4: Cultural Heritage Preservation - SDG 4.7: Education and Awareness - SDG 8.9: Sustainable Tourism - SDG 16.7: Community Engagement
Photos taken on the new year of 2024 at Chenghuangmiao in Shanghai
Chenghuangmiao, also known as the City God Temple, is a traditional Chinese temple located in the heart of Shanghai. It dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties and is dedicated to the City God, believed to protect the city and its inhabitants. The temple complex consists of various halls, courtyards, and altars, reflecting classical Chinese architecture and design. Chenghuangmiao is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical landmark that represents Shanghai's rich heritage. Chenghuang Temple Daoist Temple, Old City God Temple Snacks, Lotus Pond, Huxinting Tea House, and Jiuquqiao together form a distinctive and characteristic cultural attraction known as the "Old City" in Shanghai, creating a unique tourism and cultural identity for the city. Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): The digital platform promotes the sustainable use of cultural heritage by making it accessible to a global audience, fostering awareness and appreciation. Goal 4 (Quality Education): The inclusion of bilingual voice guides contributes to educational outreach, making cultural and historical information about Chenghuangmiao accessible to a wider range of people. Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The use of digital technology for virtual tours represents an innovative approach to heritage preservation and cultural dissemination.
Sunset over the River of Grass, NPSphoto, G.Gardner
The introduction pictures from the official website of ZhangJiaJie
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in Hunan province, China, is known for its stunning sandstone pillars, lush vegetation, and unique geological formations. In December 1992, the unique quartz sandstone peak forest was included in the World Natural Heritage List by the United Nations. The natural scenery of Wulingyuan tourist area is famous for its peaks, secluded valleys and beautiful forests. There are more than 3,000 strange peaks in it, which are like people, beasts, utensils and objects. They are lifelike and spectacular. The park served as an inspiration for the fictional world of Pandora in the movie "Avatar." Its diverse flora and fauna make it an ecological hotspot and a significant natural heritage site. Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The integration of XR technology, VR, 5G, AI, and automated modeling represents innovative solutions, contributing to advancements in the tourism industry and creating new, engaging ways for visitors to experience cultural and natural heritage. Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): The digital initiatives support sustainable tourism by providing an alternative, virtual experience that can help reduce the environmental impact associated with physical tourism. Goal 4 (Quality Education): The immersive and interactive nature of the digital experience contributes to educating tourists about the cultural and natural significance of Zhangjiajie, fostering awareness and appreciation.
Southeast view of cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris, France
El Castillo (pyramid of Kukulcán) in Chichén Itzá
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.
The current Trevi Fountain was commissioned by Pope Clement XII, who held a competition in 1732, with architect Nicola Salvi's design chosen for its monumental scale and harmonious integration with the adjacent palace. The fountain, resembling a triumphal arch, features a central niche with the sculpted figure of Oceanus driving a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two horses, surrounded by allegorical reliefs and sculptures representing the beneficial effects of water. Salvi's masterpiece expertly blends history and nature, reflecting the ideals of the Enlightenment. Digital interpretation of the Trevi Fountain can help achieve the goal of creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). By using technology to share its history and cultural importance, it encourages responsible tourism and fosters local pride in preserving heritage sites. Furthermore, digital tools can help manage visitor numbers and minimize environmental impact, ensuring the fountain's long-term sustainability for residents and visitors alike.
Culture,Immovable Culture Heritage,Tourism
Pingyao Ancient City is located in Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province. It was first built in the period of King Xuan of Zhou Dynasty and expanded in the third year of Hongwu in Ming Dynasty (1370). It has a history of more than 2,800 years. It also relatively intactly retains the basic features of the county town during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and is the most complete ancient city existing in the Han ethnic area of China. Moreover, in the development of Chinese history, it shows people an extraordinary complete picture of cultural, social, economic and religious development.
The Ancient City of Pingyao, located in Shanxi Province, China, is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a traditional Han Chinese city from the Ming and Qing dynasties (14th-20th centuries). Its impressive city walls, temples, shops, and residential houses showcase the cultural, social, and economic development of Chinese civilization over five centuries. Pingyao's urban fabric and its many intact architectural features provide an outstanding picture of the evolution of Chinese city planning and historic conservation. Digital interpretation of this site can contribute to SDG 11.4, which aims to strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world's cultural and natural heritage.
Flamenco (Spanish pronunciation: [flaˈmeŋko]) is an art form based on the various folkloric music traditions of southern Spain, developed within the gitano subculture of the region of Andalusia, and also having historical presence in Extremadura and Murcia.
Flamenco is an artistic expression that fuses song (cante), dance (baile), and musicianship (toque). Originating from the Andalusian region of southern Spain, Flamenco has evolved over centuries, influenced by the cultural melting pot of Andalusia's history. It is characterized by its emotional intensity, haunting melodies, and intricate guitar playing. Flamenco is an integral part of Spain's cultural identity and continues to be passed down through generations. Digital interpretation of this intangible heritage can contribute to SDG 4.7, which aims to promote appreciation of cultural diversity and culture's contribution to sustainable development.
The book Las Cartas Marruecas (The Moroccan Letters) by José Cadalso
Venice and its Lagoon(National Geographic)
Venetian life exists among the city's hundreds of canals and diverse architecture. This short film from directors Olvier Astrologo and Nils Astrologo immerses us in the history and hidden places of Venice, Italy, revealing ancient folk traditions.
Venice and its Lagoon form an extraordinary architectural masterpiece, with the city's unique setting, Gothic and Renaissance buildings, and its network of canals and islands. Founded in the 5th century and flourishing as a major maritime power from the 10th to the 16th centuries, Venice has had a profound influence on the development of architecture and monumental arts across Europe. The Lagoon's delicate ecosystem is threatened by climate change, rising sea levels, and human activities. Digital interpretation can raise awareness about these issues and support SDG 13.1, which focuses on strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
The Terracotta Warriors are a collection of ancient Chinese army sculptures located in the tomb area of Qin Shi Huangdi near the present-day city of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. The sculptures are considered one of the greatest discoveries in Chinese archaeological history.
The legendary history of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses
This video will take you through the history of the Terracotta Warriors in five minutes!
Located in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the Potala Palace is a palace complex of great historical, religious and cultural value. It was built in the 7th century A.D. and has been expanded over the years to become the winter palace of the Tibetan king and an important centre of Buddhism in Tibet. The Potala Palace is not only the most famous landmark and tourist attraction in Tibet, but also an important place for religious activities. As one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Potala Palace is internationally protected for its unique architectural art, religious significance, and its importance in Tibetan culture and history. Due to its location and structure, the Potala Palace is an immovable heritage site, meaning that it is closely associated with its location and cannot be relocated. The palace and the artefacts, artefacts, murals and libraries it contains are part of its cultural heritage and together they tell the story of the history and spiritual life of Tibet and its people.
Located in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the Potala Palace is a palace complex of great historical, religious and cultural value. It was built in the 7th century A.D. and has been expanded over the years to become the winter palace of the Tibetan king and an important centre of Buddhism in Tibet. The Potala Palace is not only the most famous landmark and tourist attraction in Tibet, but also an important place for religious activities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the protection and conservation of the Potala Palace meets the requirements of SDG 11.4, which is to strengthen the protection and conservation of global cultural and natural heritage. The conservation of the Potala Palace concerns not only the building itself and the artefacts contained therein, but also its historical documents and the cultural activities associated with it, which are important components of cultural heritage.
The Great Wall of China, one of the World Heritage Sites, is a symbol of China's brilliant military defence engineering in ancient times. Dating back to the 7th century BC, it was constructed and extended by a number of warring states and dynasties, most notably during the Ming Dynasty when it was reinforced and expanded. The Great Wall meanders over 21,000 kilometres across China's northern border, stretching from Shanhai Pass on the East China Sea to Jiayuguan Pass in Gansu. The Great Wall is not only an important barrier for military defence, but also a huge transport and communication route. The Great Wall has become a valuable treasure of China and even the world for its magnificent scale, superb construction techniques and far-reaching historical significance.
Chartres Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in France, surpasses even Notre Dame de Paris in grandeur and preservation. Constructed between 1194 and 1250 on a historically revered site, the cathedral stands as a monument to medieval Christian art and architecture. Famous for its extensive use of stained glass, the cathedral’s walls are nearly entirely composed of colorful glass, making it a significant example of Gothic evolution from the Romanesque style. The cathedral is renowned not only for its architectural structure but also for its intricate stained glass windows and rich Gothic sculptures, whose meanings are deeply studied by scholars. The cathedral features a 34-meter-high vault, which is 4 meters taller than that of Notre Dame, enhancing its majestic presence. Chartres Cathedral’s design includes a vast array of stained glass that covers 32,292 square feet, with most of the original 13th-century glass still intact, illustrating biblical stories and Christian doctrines in vibrant color and detail. Notable for its scale and artistic detail, the cathedral’s interior is a pilgrimage site for its relic, the Sancta Camisa, said to be the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary during Christ's birth. This relic continues to draw pilgrims alongside tourists who come to admire the architectural and sculptural elements of the building. In 1979, Chartres Cathedral was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. The cathedral’s design exemplifies the Gothic ideal, with its high, intricate vaults supported by external buttresses, allowing for larger windows and thus more light. The architectural plan features a long nave flanked by aisles and an apse at the eastern end, typical of French Gothic cathedrals. The exterior is dominated by two contrasting spires and three large rose windows, each adorned with detailed sculptures that narrate theological stories.
See Potala Palace, the Iconic Heart of Tibetan Buddhism
Japan, Shimane Prefecture. The historic Ryugenji Mabu mine. The area began to be developed in 1526, and as a result the mines have been in operation for almost 400 years. At the best of times, about 38 tons of silver were produced there annually, about one-third of the world's production! Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape, located in the Shimane Prefecture of Japan, is an exceptional example of a historic mining site that flourished from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The site includes the extensive underground mines, fortresses, transportation routes, and port towns that collectively illustrate the entire process of silver production and distribution during Japan's feudal period. The mining complex demonstrates the sophisticated technology and mining systems developed in Japan at the time, while the surrounding cultural landscape showcases the unique social and economic structures that supported the mining industry. The site's history is intertwined with the global trade of silver, which played a crucial role in the economic and cultural exchange between East and West. Today, the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape face challenges posed by climate change, such as increased rainfall and landslides, which threaten the integrity of the mines and the surrounding landscape. Digital interpretation can help raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique industrial heritage and promote sustainable tourism practices, contributing to SDG 8.9, which focuses on promoting sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
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.
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.
Huanglong is renowned for its beautiful mountainous scenery, with relatively undisturbed and highly diverse forest ecosystems, combined with the more spectacular localised karst formations. Topped by permanently snow-capped peaks rising from a base of 1,700 m up to 5,588 m, these include the easternmost glacier in China. Its diverse forest ecosystems provide the home for a number of endangered plants and animals, including the giant panda and Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey.
The Alhambra, with its continuous occupation over time, is currently the only preserved palatine city of the Islamic period. It constitutes the best example of Nasrid art in its architecture and decorative aspects. The Generalife Garden and its vegetable farms represent one of the few medieval areas of agricultural productivity.