Immovable Culture Heritage,Underwater Cultural Heritage
The Terracotta Army, an iconic and awe-inspiring archaeological discovery, stands as a testament to the grandeur and ambition of the ancient Chinese civilization. This impressive collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures was crafted over 2,000 years ago during the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of unified China, as part of his elaborate burial complex. Unearthed in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, this monumental find has since captivated the world with its remarkable scale and intricate artistry. Comprising approximately 8,000 individual statues, the Terracotta Army was designed to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang into the afterlife, serving as his eternal protective force. The sculptures, which include infantry, archers, cavalry, and chariots, are meticulously arranged according to rank and role in the subterranean battle formations. Each figure is unique, showcasing individualized facial features, expressions, and armor that reflect the diversity and craftsmanship of the era. The statues were once adorned with vibrant colors, making them even more lifelike and compelling, although much of the original paint has faded over time. The Terracotta Army offers invaluable insights into ancient Chinese military strategy, technology, and culture. Its discovery has significantly enriched our understanding of the Qin Dynasty, making it a remarkable historical treasure. Today, the Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has become a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. It remains a symbol of China's long and storied past, and serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of one of the world's greatest civilizations.
The Thai Mahal The Taj Mahal, situated in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh, India, commenced construction in 1632 and was completed over a 16-year period. Its construction involved painters, calligraphers, sculptors, and numerous craftsmen from the imperial workshops.The Taj Mahal is a world famous architectural heritage site, and its design combines Indian and Persian architectural styles. It took tens of thousands of craftsmen more than a decade to complete the complex, which is mainly made of white marble. Attracting a large number of tourists every year, celebrities and politicians from around the world have come to visit, and in recent years, the Taj Mahal has faced some challenges, such as environmental pollution and acid rain, as well as natural weathering. Digital interpretation can help Taj Mahal gain more network traffic and social attention, increase the number of tourists by better displaying the architectural charm of Taj Mahal, and further promote the development of local economy. This can effectively promote SDG8 - Decent work and economic growth.
The Thai Mahal The Taj Mahal, situated in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh, India, commenced construction in 1632 and was completed over a 16-year period. Its construction involved painters, calligraphers, sculptors, and numerous craftsmen from the imperial workshops.The Taj Mahal is a world famous architectural heritage site, and its design combines Indian and Persian architectural styles. It took tens of thousands of craftsmen more than a decade to complete the complex, which is mainly made of white marble. Attracting a large number of tourists every year, celebrities and politicians from around the world have come to visit, and in recent years, the Taj Mahal has faced some challenges, such as environmental pollution and acid rain, as well as natural weathering. Digital interpretation can help Taj Mahal gain more network traffic and social attention, increase the number of tourists by better displaying the architectural charm of Taj Mahal, and further promote the development of local economy. This can effectively promote SDG8 - Decent work and economic growth
It is located in Gojo-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture in Japan. The temple was built by the Chinese monk Kanzen in the Tang Dynasty and is known as a temple of Sino-Japanese friendship. It has been listed as a national treasure of Japan, and in 1998, it was listed as a World Heritage Site as part of the "Cultural Heritage of Nara, the ancient capital.
The Traditional Art of Batik Making in Indonesia
The art of Batik making is an Indonesian heritage that involves wax-resist dyeing applied to the whole cloth. Batik is known for its intricate patterns and is deeply interwoven with Indonesian cultural identity. Recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, Batik reflects Indonesian creativity and spirituality through its diverse patterns influenced by various cultures.
The Way of Saint James is a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, traditionally believed to be the burial site of the apostle Saint James. This pilgrimage tradition has been practiced for centuries, fostering cultural exchange and spiritual exploration.
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)
Twin figurine found in the Xagħra Stone Circle on the island of Gozo (Malta), dated between 4,100 and 2,500 BC. Thought to represent fertility, the left figurine is holding a baby figure. Currently at the Ġgantija Temples Interpretation Centre. Photographed on: 27/06/2020
Fortifications of Xi'an, also known as The Xi'an City Wall, is a city wall located in the urban area of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. It has been built since the early Ming Dynasty on the basis of the Imperial City of Chang ‘an City of Tang Dynasty and has been repaired many to play a role as form a tight defense system.Xi'an City Wall is one of the most complete ancient city walls remaining in China, showing the complete features of wall architecture in feudal society.
The Younger Memnon is a statue of the upper body and head of Ramses II that originally adorned the entrance of the Ramesseum, Ramses Ii's mortuary temple. Originally this statue was part of a pair, but the other statue has been lost. This artefact has traveled the globe – now situated in the British Museum, the hieroglyphs reflect the name and titles of Ramses II, along with part of a dedication to the god Amun-Ra, which situates the statue's religious and cultural significance. In 1817, historians recorded traces of colour on the statue, which suggests that during antiquity the statue may have been painted red. This moveable heritage addresses Quality Education 4.7 and Climate Action 13.
The Palace Museum, located in the center of Beijing, China, is the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties in China. It is now the largest and best preserved ancient wooden structure complex in the world. Built in 1406, it has more than 9,000 palaces and is the pinnacle of traditional Chinese architecture. Today, it is open to the public as a museum with a collection of more than 1.8 million artifacts and is a gathering place of world-class cultural heritage and artistic treasures. Digital displays and virtual Tours allow a global audience to learn about its profound historical and cultural values. SDG 4: Quality education Enhance public literacy and history education through digital displays and global online access.
A picture of the location where the prehistoric skulls were found.
"Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains" is the pinnacle of Chinese green and blue landscape painting. This large-scale landscape scroll, measuring approximately11.9meters in length, was created by the Northern Song dynasty's genius painter Wang Ximeng. It reflects the highly developed painting art and aesthetic view of the Song dynasty. The painting not only demonstrates exquisite painting skills but also embodies the concept of harmonious coexistence between ancient Chinese people and nature.
The Golden treasure named after the town of Panagyurishte in Bulgaria is a relic that is reminiscent of Thracian workmanship in the Balkans. An Amphora, a phiale and seven rhytons are among the core artefacts that make up the 24-carat gold collection. Weighing over 13 pounds the treasure is arguably one of the most valuable historic treasures found in Bulgaria. The store that precedes the treasure involves three brothers that were working in a clay pit where the 9 pieces were first discovered. The treasure was turned over to local authorities and it was kept in the Bulgarian National Bank where three identical copies were made that would travel across international museums and join exhibits. The first copy resides in the Archaeology Museum in the city of Plovdiv and it tends to travel quite a bit across Bulgaria’s largest cities. The Thracian civilization inhabited the south of the Balkan Mountains alongside the banks of the Maritza river during the 5th century BC. One of the capital cities once resided there and the treasure was buried in what is known as the Valley of the Thracian Kings during the 300 BC. It’s main usage during the time was to serve ceremonial wine and for sanctifying during rituals. The bulk of the treasures depict the ancient goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite alongside some Amazon warriors. One of them also depicts the Judgement of Paris and Hercules performing feats of strength.
Three centuries old blueprints of Tibetan Potala Palace revealed
Wulong Tiankeng, also known as Three Natural Bridges, is a breathtaking ecological tourist destination that boasts remarkable geological wonders and serves as a prime example of karst landform. The Three Natural Bridges, which are Tianlong Bridge (Sky Dragon Bridge), Qinglong Bridge (Azure or Green Dragon Bridge), and Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon Bridge), comprise the largest group of natural bridges in Asia. Standing over 150 meters tall, 200 meters wide, and with a span of 300 meters, these bridges stand vertically, parallel to each other, and connect the mountains on either side, creating a unique landscape of "three bridges sandwiching two pits." This scene is incredibly uncommon worldwide, with two huge sinkholes on the ground and three natural stone arch bridges above. Beneath the Tainlong Bridge, visitors can find a traditional Chinese structure with a black roof and gray walls. This structure was once an official post built during the Tang Dynasty and later reconstructed based on historical relics. It even served as the only exterior scene for "The Golden Armor in the City" movie.
Three Natural Bridges -Tianfu Official Post
Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas
Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas are composed of the Nujiang, Lancang and Jinsha rivers and the mountains within their basins, covering an area of 1.7 million hectares. Under the control of geological structures, the Jinsha, Lancang and Nu rivers run from north to south through the entire region, and are bounded by a narrow zone of 60-100 km, which makes it possible to form the world's unique natural geographical landscape of "rivers flowing together without meeting", and creates the Grand Canyon of the Nu River, the Grand Canyon of the Meili Snow Mountain of the Lancang River and the Grand Canyon of the Tiger Leaping Gorge of the Jinsha River. In July 2003, the Three Parallel Rivers were inscribed on the World Heritage List.
Tiananmen, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is a historic landmark with profound cultural and political significance. The name "Tiananmen" translates to "Gate of Heavenly Peace." The focal point of Tiananmen Square, it stands as the entrance to the Forbidden City, once the imperial palace of China's emperors. Tiananmen witnessed pivotal moments in Chinese history, including the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and the 1989 student-led protests for democracy and freedom. Despite its turbulent past, Tiananmen remains an enduring symbol of China's rich heritage and the aspirations of its people.
The time line of French Fort at Eyemouth
Timespan is a cultural institution in the village of Helmsdale in the North East of the Highlands.
Understanding the internal structure of St Andrews Tolbooth.
The Tomb of Salim Chishti is famed as one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India, built during the years 1580 and 1581, along with the imperial complex at Fatehpur Sikri near Zenana Rauza and facing south towards Buland Darwaza, within the quadrangle of the Jama Masjid which measures 350 ft. by 440 ft. It enshrines the burial place of the Sufi saint, Salim Chisti (1478 – 1572), a descendant of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti of Ajmer, and who lived in a cavern on the ridge at Sikri. The mausoleum, constructed by Akbar as a mark of his respect for the Sufi saint, who foretold the birth of Akbar's son, who was named as Prince Salim after the Sufi Saint and later jahangir succeeded Akbar to the throne of the Mughal Empire
Tomb of the First Emperor Qin Shi Huang Di, Xi'an, China - panoramio
Tongariro National Park is a volcanic national park, awarded World Heritage Site in 1993.
This is the photo taken by yx66 in Tongariro National Park, New Zealand.
Tongariro National Park, North Island, New Zealand
Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage Site located on the North Island of New Zealand. It is famous for its volcanic scenery. The park has three major volcanos: Mount Ruapehu, the highest peak of the North Island, Mount Tongariro, and Mount Ngauruhoe. They are all part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. All of the volcanos are still classified as active, so there is a reasonable possibility that they may erupt. Statistics data show that Mount Ngauruhoe erupts every nine years. Unique local birds and vegetation can be found in Tongariro, e.g. whio, kiwi birds, and a large number of alpine plant species. The area is significantly important to the local Maori people as a spiritual link between the people and nature. Preserving the culture is essential. Technological interpretation will address Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts and Goal 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
The Totes Gebirge, or “Dead Mountains”, is a mountain range spanning the Austrian states of Styria and Upper Austria. The range gets its name from its grey appearance due to the lack of water from natural springs and altitude. Despite this, the mountains in this range are valued for their stark beauty and challenging sport offerings in the form of hiking, climbing, skiing, and more. The highest peak in this range with an altitude of 2515 meters is Großer Priel, located in the Prielgruppe subgroup. Excerpt from P1.
Traditional boat near the Uros islands, made from totora reeds, used to travel to the Peruvian mainland and for touristic purposes
Tourists returning to the ferries back to Cape Town after their visit to Robben Island
Batik is a centuries-old art form originating in Southeast Asia, especially prominent in Malaysia and Indonesia. Known for its intricate wax-resist dyeing process, Batik reflects folklore, nature, and spiritual motifs. In Malaysia, it represents national identity and sustains local economies through fashion and cultural tourism. Digitally, this heritage is preserved through high-resolution archiving, virtual exhibitions, AR experiences, and digital fabric printing. While digital printing allows mass production, it raises concerns about authenticity. Tools like VR games and AR tutorials bridge accessibility gaps, promoting deeper public engagement with this traditional craft. Batik’s digital revival supports artisans economically and ensures this vibrant cultural expression is preserved in modern, sustainable ways. SDG Target: Goal 8.3 – Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, and entrepreneurship, including micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises
Traditional Fabric Dyeing - Batik [Malaysia]
Trade relations between the Malay kingdoms in Sumatra and Malay peninsula with Javanese coastal cities have thrived since the 13th century. The northern coastal batik-producing areas of Java (Cirebon, Lasem, Tuban, and Madura) have influenced Jambi batik, which, along with Javanese batik, subsequently influenced the craft in the Malay Peninsula. Later, in the 1920s, a new influx of Javanese batik makers introduced stamped batik to the peninsula. The batik industry today provides significant benefit to the Malaysian economy, and the Malaysian government supports efforts to promote their own artisans and their products abroad
Traditional Li textile techniques: spinning, dyeing, weaving and embroidering
The traditional Li textile techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving and embroidering are employed by women of the Li ethnic group of Hainan Province, China, to make cotton, hemp and other fibres into clothing and other daily necessities. The techniques involved, including warp ikat, double-face embroidery, and single-face jacquard weaving, are passed down from mothers to daughters from early childhood through verbal instruction and personal demonstration. Li women design the textile patterns using only their imagination and knowledge of traditional styles. In the absence of a written language, these patterns record the history and legends of Li culture as well as aspects of worship, taboos, beliefs, traditions and folkways. The patterns also distinguish the five major spoken dialects of Hainan Island. The textiles form an indispensable part of important social and cultural occasions such as religious rituals and festivals, and in particular weddings, for which Li women design their own dresses. As carriers of Li culture, traditional Li textile techniques are an indispensable part of the cultural heritage of the Li ethnic group. However, in recent decades the numbers of women with the weaving and embroidery skills at their command has severely declined to the extent that traditional Li textile techniques are exposed to the risk of extinction and are in urgent need of protection.
In Hainan Province, China, an ancient ethnic group called Li, also known as Hlai, communicates through their language without characters. Li women have recorded their culture's history and legends through textile patterns, and have developed a complete set of techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving and embroidering. These traditional Li textile techniques, with a history of over 3,000 years, are known as a living fossil of China's textile history. They have been passed down exclusively among women, supporting gender equality and contributing significantly towards achieving SDG 5. With the development of the textile industry, most young Li women are unfamiliar with these traditional techniques. In response to the threat and risk that these techniques might be lost, the local government recorded how Li women made Li textiles, integrated the video into a series of tutorials, and shared resources with many colleges and institutions around the world. This digital protection and promotion contributes to the achievement of SDG 4, promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all by sharing resources, and also help revitalize the global partnership to achieve SDG 17.
Photo of a traditional ladies' Peranakan costume. Image taken in Netherlands: Vitrine Baba Nonya
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.
This exhibition, ‘Ceòl Uibhist a Tuath’, takes a look at the music of North Uist through the ages. We journey through the works of John MacCodrum and Dòmhnall ‘Ruadh’ Choruna, who still influence present-day musicians, such as singers Julie Fowlis, Linda MacLeod and the band Beinn Lee, who have played major roles in modernising the tradition. Songwriters, Calum and Rory MacDonald, are known the world over; their influence is international as part of the band Runrig. Here you will find poetry, music, song, piping, dance-music and field-workers, who played an important role in the preservation of oral and written works. Music’s influence on the fashion of the day is also apparent, as the photographs will testify. This, however, is the beginning of a journey that aims to identify and preserve home recordings, tapes, video, film, photographs and other materials from within the local community. Undoubtedly, there are many priceless items tucked away in drawers, cupboards, lofts, sheds, out of sight and mind. We hope that discoveries will ensure that the story of ‘Ceòl Uibhist a Tuath’ will continue to evolve through the work of the Comann Eachdraidh.
Trinity Temple Presentation - Bill Lawson
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.
Tutankhamun tomb in the Valley of the Kings (KV62)
Two Brothers Rock beach in Fernando de Noronha
Digital Tolbooth overlayed onto Fife Council Archaeological image of the site, Inlay of James Gordon's Map 1642.
University of St Andrews - Geosciences - Callanish
University of St Andrews - Museum Gallery Studies exhibitions
A screenshot within Unreal Engine of digitally scanned ruins of the Gereza Fort.
For many hundreds of years Unst has lain in the midst of one of the richest fishing grounds in the world. The small wooden boats fished for cod and ling which were cleaned, split, salted and dried on the stony beaches. The dried fish were then shipped abroad in massive quantities. Boats like the sixereen ‘FAR HAAF’ were capable of fishing thirty miles off shore., while sturdy fourereens fished nearer the coast. With the onset of sudden storms there were disastrous results.
Unst Heritage Trust and Unst Boat Haven are dedicated to the cultural heritage and history of this most northerly island in Scotland. The collection includes fine original wooden boats of various types that have been in use over the past 140 years.