World Heritage of China

Author: Guo Changjian / Country:
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-10-01
Features: World Heritage is humanity's precious memory, possessing an irreplaceable and non-reproducible nature in both material and cultural value. For a country or nation, natural and cultural heritage is first and foremost a witness to history, while also providing endless motivation and spiritual resources for the continuation and development of its civilization. On the other hand, World Heritage is also a common wealth of humanity, playing an important auxiliary role in promoting exchanges, understanding, and shared prosperity among people of different countries, nations, and cultural types. Organized and planned efforts to preserve cultural and natural heritage worldwide are an inescapable common responsibility of humanity, reflecting respect for history, traditions, and all achievements of civilization. The UNESCO General Conference adopted the Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1972, embodying such a purpose. China is a country with a long-standing civilization, abundant historical remains, and magnificent natural landscapes. Since joining the Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1985, it has become an active force in discovering, researching, and protecting cultural and natural heritage. As of June 2003, a total of 28 cultural relics and natural landscapes in China have been inscribed on the World Heritage List, and one intangible cultural heritage has been listed as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. China is currently actively conducting heritage nominations. China's cultural and natural heritage belongs not only to China but also to the world and all of humanity. The large-scale illustrated book China's World Heritage before us presents a comprehensive and focused showcase of these 28 heritage sites. It not only showcases the unique value of China's World Heritage through exquisite visual materials but also introduces related artifacts, history, geography, and natural knowledge in vivid text, helping readers understand the cultural forms, political ideals, philosophical thoughts, aesthetic pursuits, and life interests that China has developed over thousands of years of history. It even explores China's national spirit and character, inspiring people to reflect on the significance of drawing nourishment and strength from traditional culture and the vast natural world. We believe it will win the appreciation of readers. UNESCO has expressed appreciation for China's efforts in protecting human cultural and natural heritage.