International Day for Monuments and Sites 2017

As the world is focussing on ‘Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism’ this year, in relation to the United Nations International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development and in the context of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, we bring you some of the most interesting monuments in India on the occasion of World Heritage Day. Watch what makes them stand apart from others!

The International Day for Monuments and Sites (World Heritage Day) is celebrated around the world on April 18 every year with activities including visits to monuments and heritage sites, conferences and round tables. The theme for the day this year is ‘Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism’ chosen in relation to the United Nations International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development and in the context of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals.

International Day for Monuments and Sites was proposed by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) on 18 April 1982 and approved by the General Assembly of UNESCO in 1983, with an aim to promote awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage of humanity, their vulnerability and the efforts required for their protection and conservation.

Thus, on this occasion, we bring you some of the unique monuments in India and the facts that make them special.

Mattancherry Palace, Kerala
The floors of this Portuguese palace are made with egg white, buttermilk and jagery, making the place one of its kind in the world.

Veerabhadra Temple of Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
One pillar in this culturally and archaeologically significant temple is not grounded to the floor. It hangs from the ceiling and yet the temple has been stable for years.

Buland Darwaza, Uttar Pradesh
Buland Darwaza is known to be the highest gateway in the world and is an example of Mughal architecture that has a secret tunnel leading to Lal Quila (Red Fort) and another opening that leads to a safe house.

Gol Gumbaz, Karnataka
Gol Gumbaz is the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, ruler of Bijapu, and is the only tomb in India with hollow walls!

Mysore palace, Karnataka 
The palace is more than 400 years old but none of the kings (the relatives who have been taking up the throne) have been able to give birth to an heir.