[Latest] A detailed explanation of all 26 new World Heritage sites in 2025

The 47th World Heritage Committee was held at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France from July 6th to July 16th, 2025, and 26 new heritage sites were registered as World Heritage Sites.

So in this article,Official UNESCO announcementBased on this, we hope to provide easy-to-understand information on all 26 World Heritage Sites newly registered in 2025 (as well as the candidates that were unfortunately not included).

Overview of the 47th World Heritage Committee

The 47th World Heritage Committee, scheduled to be held in 2025, is one of the most important international conferences organized by UNESCO under the World Heritage Convention. This committee, which is held annually, deliberates on whether cultural, natural and mixed heritage sites nominated by each country should be added to the World Heritage List.

The 47th World Heritage Committee will be held in Paris, France from July 6th to 16th, 2025, and 32 diverse heritage sites from around the world will be subject to review, with rigorous evaluation taking into account historical and cultural value, natural environment, and conservation systems.

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Committee 2025 (July 2025)

List of newly registered World Heritage Sites in 2025

First, we will introduce a list of all 26 World Heritage Sites that were newly registered in 2025.

Next, we will classify these World Heritage Sites into cultural, natural, and mixed sites and explain each one.

Cultural Heritage Sites Registered in 2025

Prehistoric Landscape of Faya (United Arab Emirates)

The Faya region in the northern part of the United Arab Emirates has extensive evidence of human activity dating back to prehistoric times. Cave ruins, stone tools, and settlement remains have been discovered there, playing an important role in elucidating the human history of the Arabian Peninsula.

Prehistoric Sardinian Funeral Traditions: Domus de Janas (Italy)

The "Domus de Janus" found on the Italian island of Sardinia is a collective name for rock-cut tombs built from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Characterized by complex labyrinthine internal structures and mural decorations, they are attracting attention as clues to understanding views on life and death and social structure. They are an important heritage site that conveys the development of Sardinia's unique prehistoric culture and traces of external exchange.

Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley (Iran)

Located in the Khorramabad Valley in western Iran, this heritage site is rich in traces of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. The dense concentration of archaeological and architectural remains, including cave dwellings, ancient settlements, and the Falak al-Aflaq Castle, speaks to the continuity and diversity of human history in the Middle East. Numerous archaeological discoveries have been made at this heritage site, and there are high hopes for further research.

Military Landscape of the Maratha Empire (India)

The military landscape of the Maratha Empire, spread mainly across western India, is a network of forts and defensive facilities built by the Maratha Empire from the 17th to 19th centuries. Strategically placed forts, water facilities, and watchtowers perched atop cliffs, the landscape conveys the transitions in regional control and the evolution of military technology. Local communities continue to maintain and hold traditional events, playing an important role in learning about modern Indian history.

Murujuga Cultural Landscape (Australia)

Located in the Pilbara region of northwestern Australia, Murujuga is a rock formation where traces of the culture and beliefs of Aboriginal people that have existed for tens of thousands of years remain. Its greatest feature is the presence of one of the world's largest collections of petroglyphs (rock art). The rock art, estimated to number around one million, depicts the lives of hunter-gatherers, as well as flora and fauna and mythical beings, demonstrating the continuation of the indigenous culture of the Australian continent. While coexistence with mining development and preservation management remain challenges, the conservation system in cooperation with indigenous groups has been highly praised, and the site is nominated for new inscription in 2025.

Di Guid Bi Cultural Landscape in the Mandara Mountains (Cameroon)

The Di-Gido-Biy Cultural Landscape, which stretches across the Mandara Mountains in northern Cameroon, is a rare cultural landscape that integrates the traditional agricultural, residential, and religious spaces of indigenous peoples. Stone walls, terraced fields, and sacred areas are skillfully constructed on the mountain slopes, and the landscape is highly regarded for its sustainability of land use and harmony with spiritual culture. It is also rich in non-material heritage such as the lifestyle culture of local communities, oral traditions, and animist beliefs, and is recognized as a unique rural landscape on a global scale.

Cambodia's Places of Memory: From Centers of Oppression to Places of Peace and Reflection (Cambodia)

The Cambodian Site of Memory is a commemorative site that symbolizes the history of the genocide that occurred under the Pol Pot regime in the 1970s and the subsequent steps toward reconciliation and regeneration. Negative legacies such as concentration camps and killing fields are being redefined as educational sites for the value of peace and the protection of human rights. There are also many exhibitions and events aimed at squarely reexamining the tragic history, passing on memories, and commemorating the victims. It is hoped that the inscription on the World Heritage List will lead to an international reevaluation of the importance of protecting negative historical heritage and building peace.

Minoan Palaces (Greece)

The Minoan palaces on the Aegean island of Crete are a symbol of the Minoan civilization, which built the oldest advanced urban civilization in Europe. Several palace ruins have been discovered, including those at Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia, preserving intricate frescoes, architectural structures, and traces of religious ceremonies. The island also developed as a trading hub in the Mediterranean Sea, and speaks to the origins of ancient Greek culture.

17th-century Port Royal Archaeological Site (Jamaica)

Port Royal in Jamaica, facing the Caribbean Sea, was an international trading port that flourished as a base for pirates in the 17th century. Most of the city was submerged in a major earthquake in 1692, which earned it the nickname "Atlantis of the Caribbean." Thanks to the results of underwater archaeology, the actual urban structure and trade networks of the time are gradually being clarified.

Petroglyphs along the Bangu River (Korea)

Bangucheon in southern Korea is home to petroglyphs dating back to prehistoric times. The petroglyphs depict animals, humans, and abstract patterns, providing clues to the lifestyles, beliefs, and artistic expression of the time. They are highly regarded internationally in both archaeology and art history.

Ancient Hotar Cultural Ensemble (Tajikistan)

The Khotar ruins in western Tajikistan are the remains of a trading city along the Silk Road that crossed Central Asia. A diverse range of religious cultures, including Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and Islam, intersected here, and magnificent urban remains and burial facilities have been excavated. They are essential for research into the ancient history of Central Asia.

Western Xia Royal Mausoleum (China)

The Western Xia Royal Tombs, located in China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, are a group of royal tombs for the Western Xia dynasty, which flourished from the 11th to 13th centuries. Magnificent earthworks and pyramidal tomb towers are scattered across the desert, and their scale and state of preservation make them some of the best among China's ancient dynasty ruins. The fusion of diverse elements, including the Western Xia's unique writing system, art, and Buddhist culture, tells the story of the exchanges between ethnic groups and civilizations in inland China. Excavations and restoration work are still ongoing, and the site is attracting attention for its exceptional archaeological value.

The palaces of King Ludwig II of Bavaria: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, Schachen
Castle, Herrenchiemsee

The four palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the late 19th century are a unique architectural complex where romanticism and realism intersect. Including Neuschwanstein Castle, which served as the model for Disneyland, they are highly praised for their fantastical beauty and unique design philosophy. They have been registered as a World Heritage Site as a cultural landscape that encapsulates the duality of the king's ideals and reality, his love of art and his leadership of the state.

Lydian Mounds of Sardis and Bin Tepe (Türkiye)

Sardis and Bin Tepe in western Turkey are home to the royal tombs (tumuli) of the ancient Lydian Kingdom. These sites encapsulate the essence of Anatolian culture that existed before Greece and Rome, and are a renowned heritage site that is also a symbol of the Golden Civilization.

Trans-Isthmus Route during the Panama Colonial Era (Panama)

The colonial roads and related remains that cross the Isthmus of Panama were key points for East-West exchange, trade, and colonization in the Americas. Parts of the historic roads that have been in use since the Spanish colonial period are still in use today, and are attracting attention as important legacies of cross-cultural exchange and global economic history.

Megaliths of Carnac and the Gulf of Morbihan (France)

Thousands of giant stone formations (menhirs) and stone circles (dolmens) estimated to have been built from around 5000 BC remain in Carnac and the Gulf of Morbihan in Brittany, western France. These megalithic remains represent the Neolithic culture of Europe and are essential heritage for elucidating prehistoric beliefs, rituals and community life. They are also highly popular as tourist resources, and finding the right balance between preservation and utilization is a challenge.

Yen Tu-Vinh Niem-Cong Son and Kiep Bac Monument and Landscape Ensemble (Vietnam)

Known as a sacred site where Buddhist culture and mountain worship converge, this heritage site comprises the Yen Tu mountain range in northern Vietnam, as well as the ruins of Vinh Nghiem, Con Son, and Kiet Bac. The Yen Tu mountain range is famous as the birthplace of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism, with long pilgrimage routes and numerous Buddhist temples scattered throughout the mountains. Zen monk Tran Nhan Thong, who practiced here during the Tran Dynasty, is particularly acclaimed for establishing a culture that combined Buddhism and mountain worship. Vinh Nghiem and Con Son preserve Zen temple architecture, precious scriptures, and historical stone monuments, while Kiet Bac is also famous as a memorial site for the literary figure Nguyen Chi Thanh.

Mount Mulanje Cultural Landscape (Malawi)

Mount Mulanje, located in southern Malawi, is characterized by its majestic mountain ranges, reaching heights of around 3,000 meters, and the traditional agricultural landscape that spreads across its slopes. The sustainable land use and religious practices of indigenous African peoples remain strongly evident to this day, and the area embodies the coexistence of diverse flora and fauna with human society. Recognized for its value in both natural and cultural terms, it is one of the leading cultural landscapes on the African continent.

Selangor Forest Park Malaysian Forest Research Institute (Malaysia)

Located in Selangor, Malaysia, this forest park has received international acclaim as a place for the conservation of tropical rainforest ecosystems and for sustainable research and education. The forest is home to rare endemic species, large trees, and a traditional forest use culture, and various programs and ecotourism are being developed. The harmony between nature and human society has attracted the attention of the World Heritage Committee in 2025.

The Tatehuali Huahuiye (Wiharika Trail) leading to Wirikuta via the sacred sites (Mexico)

The Huichol (Huirika) people of Mexico have a unique religious culture centered on pilgrimages to the sacred site of Huirikuta. The sacred mountains, caves, and ceremonial sites associated with this pilgrimage route are symbols of the indigenous people's cosmology and traditional culture. While protecting sacred sites through tourism and resource development is an issue, it is hoped that the inscription on the World Heritage List will help to respect and preserve the diverse cultural values of the area.

Shulgan-Tash Cave Paintings (Russian Federation)

The Shulgan-Tash Cave in southern Russia is home to numerous valuable Paleolithic cave paintings. The paintings skillfully depict scenes of hunting and rituals, as well as depictions of animals, making them essential materials for research into the prehistoric cultures of Central Asia. Strengthening conservation measures and advancing academic research are anticipated.

Natural Heritage Sites to be Registered in 2025

Coastal and marine ecosystems of the Bidagos Islands: Omati Minho (Guinea-Bissau)

The Bijagos Archipelago, located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, is a treasure trove of marine and coastal ecosystems, consisting of dozens of islands, tidal flats, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds. It is home to a diverse range of fish, turtles, and seabirds, and is also an important conservation area for endangered species. Traditional fishing practices and island culture are closely linked to the natural environment, and the archipelago has been praised for its "coexistence of people and nature." The 2025 assessment will focus on the conservation management system and sustainable use initiatives, including the expansion of the existing range.

Gola and Tiwai Complex (Sierra Leone)

The Gola Tiwai complex is a mixed heritage site located in Sierra Leone, West Africa, that combines rich tropical rainforest, biodiversity, and indigenous culture. The Gola forest maintains one of the most pristine ecosystems in Africa, and is home to many wild animals, including endangered species. The neighboring Tiwai Island also boasts a unique natural environment, as well as the traditional use of nature and sacred beliefs of local residents.

Moons Klint (Denmark)

Munds Klint is famous for its sheer chalk cliffs, towering over 120 meters in southeastern Denmark. Facing the Baltic Sea, the cliffs stretch for approximately 6 km and were formed by geological activity tens of millions of years ago, and many Cretaceous fossils have been excavated there. In addition to its unique scenic beauty, the coastal forests and rare flora and fauna communities are also protected, making it one of Europe's leading natural tourist destinations. It is also attracting attention as a model region for environmental education and sustainable tourism.

Peruas River Valley (Brazil)

The Peruas River Valley is a natural heritage site known for its spectacular cave systems and limestone plateaus in central-western Brazil. Its hundreds of caves, underground rivers, giant stalactites and stalagmites form one of South America's largest karst formations. Its unique ecosystem, diverse bat and cave creature populations, archaeological rock art and indigenous ruins have been discovered, making it an important site in the fields of geology, biology, and culture. It also contains traces of human habitation and ancient ceremonial sites, making it a treasure trove for academic research.

Mixed Heritage Sites Registered in 2025

Mount Kumgang – Diamond Mountain from the Sea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Mount Kumgang, located in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula, is a sacred mountain representing East Asia, with its magnificent granite peaks and rich natural scenery. Since ancient times, it has been an object of worship and art in both South and North Korea, and its beauty has been depicted in many poems and paintings. In particular, Mount Kumgang, seen across the sea from the eastern coast of the Korean Peninsula, is a spectacular sight, often referred to as the "Diamond Mountain from the Sea." In addition to its mountainous scenery, it is also highly regarded for its historical value, linked to Buddhist ruins and traditional culture from the dynasty era.

List of World Heritage sites that were nominated for inscription in 2025 but were not included

On the other hand, we will also introduce some World Heritage sites that were subject to deliberation at the 2025 World Heritage Committee meeting but unfortunately were not inscribed.

Tilaurakot-Kapilavastu, archaeological site of the ancient Shakya Kingdom (Nepal)

Tilaurakot, located in southern Nepal, is the remains of an ancient city believed to be Kapilavastu, the birthplace of the Buddha (Gautama Siddhartha). As a crossroads between ancient Indian and Himalayan civilizations, it is highly valuable from a historical, religious, and archaeological perspective. It is being reevaluated not only as a Buddhist heritage site, but also as a hub for the exchange of diverse civilizations.

Gdynia, early modernist urban center (Poland)

The Polish port city of Gdynia is known for its collection of modernist buildings built in the early 20th century. Urban planning focused on geometric design and functionality, making it a symbolic presence in the history of modern European cities. The city is well preserved and highly acclaimed by fans of modernist architecture.

The Architecture of Álvaro Siza: The Legacy of Modern Contextualism (Portugal)

The works of Portuguese world-renowned architect Álvaro Siza are considered to be the pinnacle of modern contextualist architecture. His approach, which combines contemporary design with an emphasis on regional characteristics and history, has had a major influence on architects around the world. His diverse works, including residential, public, and cultural facilities, are important assets in the history of modern architecture.

Eastern Mongolian Grassland (Mongolia)

The Eastern Mongolian grasslands are one of the most naturally occurring grasslands in Eurasia, and are also known as the land associated with Genghis Khan. The vast grasslands and wetlands are home to rare plants and animals, including endangered species such as the great bustard and the great robin. The region is characterized by the fact that its nomadic traditions and the symbiotic relationship between nature and humans are still preserved.

Maputo National Park (Mozambique)

Maputo National Park in southern Mozambique is a nature reserve with diverse ecosystems, from the coastline to inland wetlands, lakes, and savannas. It is home to elephants, hippos, rare birds, and plant communities, and with the expansion of the border with South Africa, it has formed an international nature corridor. Sustainable tourism and conservation activities by local communities are also thriving, and the maintenance of ecosystem services is globally recognized.