Pakistan's interference in the ancient archaeological complex of Taxila has been questioned UNESCO, the cultural arm of the United Nations. It warned Islamabad against "reconstructions" at two ancient sites or risk losing the site's coveted heritage status.&nbsp;In a recent meeting with senior government officials UNESCO said that it would not hesitate to "delist" the historical sites at Mohra Moradu and Sirkap - &nbsp;one of South Asia's most significant mahavihara complexes - just like it had "delisted" a World Heritage Site in Germany, due to "unnecessary interventions", reported Dawn newspaper.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-army-gave-kashmiris-those-guns-and-now-they-call-us-terrorists-pok-leader-1783013775621">Pakistan Army gave Kashmiris those guns and now they call us terrorists: PoK leader</a>&nbsp;The warning comes after the Punjab archaeology department carried out some conservation work at the two sites. The archaeology department reportedly used cement and modern masonry which is against UNESCO's internationally accepted principles for preserving archaeological monuments.<h2>Visitor shared photographs with UNESCO&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;In March, a visitor and whistleblower shared photographs of the work being carried out at the site with Pakistan's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in Paris.&nbsp;After looking at the pictures UNESCO warned that the "unnecessary interventions" had compromised the authenticity and integrity of the heritage site, reported Dawn.&nbsp;A joint technical visit to the Taxila Museum was carried out by UNESCO, Pakistan's Department of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM), and the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture Division last month to determine the extent of damage to the building if any.&nbsp;Punjab archaeology department Director General Malik Zaheer Abbas has defended the conservation work at the sites by saying, "The interventions being undertaken are conservation measures based on internationally accepted conservation principles, with the primary objective of stabilising vulnerable archaeological remains, preventing further deterioration, and preserving the authenticity and integrity of these World Heritage properties,"&nbsp;

The archaeology department reportedly used cement and modern masonry which is against UNESCOs internationally accepted principles for preserving archaeological monuments.

Pakistan's interference in the ancient archaeological complex of Taxila has been questioned UNESCO, the cultural arm of the United Nations. It warned Islamabad against "reconstructions" at two ancient sites or risk losing the site's coveted heritage status. In a recent meeting with senior government officials UNESCO said that it would not hesitate to "delist" the historical sites at Mohra Moradu and Sirkap - one of South Asia's most significant mahavihara complexes - just like it had "delisted" a World Heritage Site in Germany, due to "unnecessary interventions", reported Dawn newspaper. ALSO READ: Pakistan Army gave Kashmiris those guns and now they call us terrorists: PoK leader The warning comes after the Punjab archaeology department carried out some conservation work at the two sites. The archaeology department reportedly used cement and modern masonry which is against UNESCO's internationally accepted principles for preserving archaeological monuments. Visitor shared photographs with UNESCO In March, a visitor and whistleblower shared photographs of the work being carried out at the site with Pakistan's Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in Paris. After looking at the pictures UNESCO warned that the "unnecessary interventions" had compromised the authenticity and integrity of the heritage site, reported Dawn. A joint technical visit to the Taxila Museum was carried out by UNESCO, Pakistan's Department of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM), and the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture Division last month to determine the extent of damage to the building if any. Punjab archaeology department Director General Malik Zaheer Abbas has defended the conservation work at the sites by saying, "The interventions being undertaken are conservation measures based on internationally accepted conservation principles, with the primary objective of stabilising vulnerable archaeological remains, preventing further deterioration, and preserving the authenticity and integrity of these World Heritage properties,"

The archaeology department reportedly used cement and modern masonry which is against UNESCO's internationally accepted principles for preserving archaeological monuments.

UN warns Pakistan against 'reconstructions’ at Taxila sites, says can 'delist' the historical sites

The Flow Country has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it Scotland’s first natural world heritage site. The Flow Country is home to a wide range of wetland and moorland species, including rare birds such as the red-throated diver, golden eagle, and short-eared owl. It is also a vital carbon sink, storing approximately 400 million tonnes of carbon in the north of Scotland.

Flow Country becomes UNESCO World Heritage Site

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground.

The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection.

“A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”.

Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures.

<h2>Site closed for public&nbsp;</h2>

Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse.

Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction.

Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates.

<h2>Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>

It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/13-die-after-powerful-storm-causes-roof-of-sports-club-to-collapse-in-argentina-670552">13 die after powerful storm causes roof of sports club to collapse in Argentina</a>

The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century.

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According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques".

Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed.

Three masons who were carrying out repairs of the ancient walls around the Old City of Kairouan in Tunisia — a UNESCO world heritage — died after a section of the wall collapsed. The incident happened on Saturday (Dec 16) after a 30m section of the wall near the Gate of the Floggers crashed to the ground. The Kairouan medina, which is surrounded by massive city walls, was under renovation when an accident took place according to Tunisia's Civil Protection. “A team was carrying out restoration work” on the 3km (two mile) long wall that surrounds the Old City, department spokesperson Moez Tria told AFP, adding that the accident “could be linked to heavy rains in the area in recent days”. Two more workers were said to be injured and have suffered fractures. Site closed for public Tria said a perimeter had been set up to stop people from walking under part of the wall which is still at risk of further collapse. Located in the centre of Tunisia in a plain at an almost equal distance from the sea and the mountain, Kairouan city was founded in 670 AD, and is one of North Africa's holiest cities and a leading tourist attraction. Its rich architectural heritage includes the Great Mosque, with its marble and porphyry columns, and the 9th-century Mosque of the Three Gates. Historical significance It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, and is home to the Mosque of the Three Doors, the oldest known mosque with a sculpted façade. Also read | 13 die after powerful storm causes roof of sports club to collapse in Argentina The city was also considered the capital of the Muslim world in North Africa for four centuries, before Tunis was chosen as Tunisia's political capital in the 12th century. Also read | Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community According to UNESCO, the mosque is "an architectural masterpiece that served as a model for several other Maghreban mosques". Kairouan bears unique witness to the first centuries of this civilisation and its architectural and urban development, UNESCO says in its website. (With inputs from agencies)

Three killed after ancient wall at UNESCO world heritage site in Tunisia collapses

A United Nations-backed mission is recommending that the Great Barrier Reef be added to the list of endangered World Heritage sites. They also said that the world's biggest coral reef ecosystem was significantly impacted by climate change and warming of oceans.

WION Climate Tracker | UN: Great Barrier Reef should be on heritage 'danger' list

A simple misunderstanding may have resulted in the naming of one of the world's most famous archaeological sites.

According to a recent review of historical texts, the ancient Incan city we know as 'Machu Picchu' should probably be called 'Picchu' or 'Huayna Picchu.'&nbsp;

When Hiram Bingham, a white American historian and explorer, was initially taken to the old Incan remains in 1911, he asked a local landowner to record the site's name in his field journal.

Hiram observed that when the phrase "Macho Pischo" was spoken aloud, it sounded more like "pecchu."

The moniker stuck from then on.

This title has been repeated over the world for more than a century, on maps, papers, and history books.

Some specialists just began to question the term in the 1990s.&nbsp;

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What awesome weather at Machu Picchu. The first three photos were taken within 15 minutes of each other. The 4th photo was taken about 30 minutes later. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/photooftheday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#photooftheday</a> <a href="https://t.co/IfT1hwEW4e">pic.twitter.com/IfT1hwEW4e</a>
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Many Cusco residents were unaware of the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu until the early twentieth century.

However, the mountains on either side of the long-forgotten city were well-known.

In most images, the little and steep mountain behind the ruins is known as 'Huayna Picchu,' while the bigger, sloped hill to the south is known as 'Machu Picchu.'

Bingham's diaries mention a conversation with Adolfo Quevedo, a local politician who referred to the remains as 'Huayna Picchu.'

A local farmer approached Bingham's group a few days later and informed them that nearby were some ruins known as 'Huayna Picchu.'

Other ruins, he claimed, could be found on the peak of Machu Picchu mountain, however they were considerably smaller in scale than those found closer to Huayna Picchu.

Bingham later referred to the place as 'Maccu Piccu, Huayna Pichu' in his journal.

Bingham finally settled on 'Machu Picchu' after Arteaga jotted down the now famous name in answer to Bingham's inquiries.

However, it's possible that Arteaga was referring to the remains of Machu Picchu rather than Huayna Picchu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A simple misunderstanding may have resulted in the naming of one of the world's most famous archaeological sites. According to a recent review of historical texts, the ancient Incan city we know as 'Machu Picchu' should probably be called 'Picchu' or 'Huayna Picchu.

A simple misunderstanding may have resulted in the naming of one of the world's most famous archaeological sites. According to a recent review of historical texts, the ancient Incan city we know as 'Machu Picchu' should probably be called 'Picchu' or 'Huayna Picchu.' When Hiram Bingham, a white American historian and explorer, was initially taken to the old Incan remains in 1911, he asked a local landowner to record the site's name in his field journal. Hiram observed that when the phrase "Macho Pischo" was spoken aloud, it sounded more like "pecchu." The moniker stuck from then on. This title has been repeated over the world for more than a century, on maps, papers, and history books. Some specialists just began to question the term in the 1990s. What awesome weather at Machu Picchu. The first three photos were taken within 15 minutes of each other. The 4th photo was taken about 30 minutes later. #photooftheday pic.twitter.com/IfT1hwEW4e — Buzzin’ Around the World (@BuzzTravelBlog) March 23, 2022 × Many Cusco residents were unaware of the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu until the early twentieth century. However, the mountains on either side of the long-forgotten city were well-known. In most images, the little and steep mountain behind the ruins is known as 'Huayna Picchu,' while the bigger, sloped hill to the south is known as 'Machu Picchu.' Bingham's diaries mention a conversation with Adolfo Quevedo, a local politician who referred to the remains as 'Huayna Picchu.' A local farmer approached Bingham's group a few days later and informed them that nearby were some ruins known as 'Huayna Picchu.' Other ruins, he claimed, could be found on the peak of Machu Picchu mountain, however they were considerably smaller in scale than those found closer to Huayna Picchu. Bingham later referred to the place as 'Maccu Piccu, Huayna Pichu' in his journal. Bingham finally settled on 'Machu Picchu' after Arteaga jotted down the now famous name in answer to Bingham's inquiries. However, it's possible that Arteaga was referring to the remains of Machu Picchu rather than Huayna Picchu. (With inputs from agencies)

This world heritage site was named wrong for past 100 years

The United Nation's cultural organisation said on Tuesday that it had added the French Mediterranean city of Nice to its world heritage list.

UNESCO made the announcement in a tweet calling Nice, famous for its mild climate, the "Winter resort town of the Riviera".

Nice joins France's more than 40 world heritage sites which include the banks of the river Seine in Paris, the Amiens cathedral, the Mont Saint Michel and stretches of the Loire valley.

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"The history of Nice, which is at the same time deeply rooted and open, Mediterranean and Alpine, European and cosmopolitan, has produced an architecture and a landscape that are unique, a model for many other cities in the world," Nice's mayor Christian Estrosi said in reaction to the announcement.

With close to one million inhabitants, greater Nice is the second-biggest city on the French Mediterranean coast after Marseille, and the fifth-biggest in France.

It is a tourist hotspot with several million visitors per year, and its airport is one of the country's busiest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liverpool-removed-from-unescos-heritage-list-due-to-overdevelopment-399460">Liverpool removed from UNESCO's heritage list due to 'overdevelopment'</a>

Nicknamed "Nice the Beautiful", the city attracted European aristocracy from the 18th century, starting with British royalty who had the seafront "Promenade des Anglais" ("Promenade of the English") named after them.

Painters including Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse also stayed there, as did writers Anton Chekhov and Friedrich Nietzsche.

The seafront walk became the scene of a murderous attack on July 14, 2016, when a 31-year-old Tunisian drove a truck into crowds gathered for fireworks to celebrate France's national holiday.

Eighty-six people, including 15 children, were killed in the attack for which the Islamic State claimed responsibility.

The UN cultural body awards world heritage status to sites judged to be of special universal value to humanity.

Top heritage sites include the Great Wall of China, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Machu Picchu in Peru and the Acropolis in Greece.

The sought-after distinction brings intangible benefits, but also often boosts tourism, and can help secure funding for the preservation of sites.

The United Nation's cultural organisation said on Tuesday that it had added the French Mediterranean city of Nice to its world heritage list. UNESCO made the announcement in a tweet calling Nice, famous for its mild climate, the "Winter resort town of the Riviera".

The United Nation's cultural organisation said on Tuesday that it had added the French Mediterranean city of Nice to its world heritage list. UNESCO made the announcement in a tweet calling Nice, famous for its mild climate, the "Winter resort town of the Riviera". Nice joins France's more than 40 world heritage sites which include the banks of the river Seine in Paris, the Amiens cathedral, the Mont Saint Michel and stretches of the Loire valley. Also read | India: Rudreswara Temple added to 'world heritage list' by UNESCO "The history of Nice, which is at the same time deeply rooted and open, Mediterranean and Alpine, European and cosmopolitan, has produced an architecture and a landscape that are unique, a model for many other cities in the world," Nice's mayor Christian Estrosi said in reaction to the announcement. With close to one million inhabitants, greater Nice is the second-biggest city on the French Mediterranean coast after Marseille, and the fifth-biggest in France. It is a tourist hotspot with several million visitors per year, and its airport is one of the country's busiest. Also read | Liverpool removed from UNESCO's heritage list due to 'overdevelopment' Nicknamed "Nice the Beautiful", the city attracted European aristocracy from the 18th century, starting with British royalty who had the seafront "Promenade des Anglais" ("Promenade of the English") named after them. Painters including Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse also stayed there, as did writers Anton Chekhov and Friedrich Nietzsche. The seafront walk became the scene of a murderous attack on July 14, 2016, when a 31-year-old Tunisian drove a truck into crowds gathered for fireworks to celebrate France's national holiday. Eighty-six people, including 15 children, were killed in the attack for which the Islamic State claimed responsibility. The UN cultural body awards world heritage status to sites judged to be of special universal value to humanity. Top heritage sites include the Great Wall of China, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Machu Picchu in Peru and the Acropolis in Greece. The sought-after distinction brings intangible benefits, but also often boosts tourism, and can help secure funding for the preservation of sites.

French city of Nice wins UNESCO world heritage status

UNESCO confirmed that Stonehenge could be stripped of its world heritage site status, over its concern that a road tunnel, backed by the govt, would damage the area. The UK is eroding its global reputation for conserving its “unparalleled” historic assets with Stonehenge expected to be next in line to lose its coveted World Heritage status after Liverpool.

UNESCO slams UK govt for approving plan that could strip Stonehenge's world heritage site status

Great Barrier Reef has escaped the prospect of being listed as endangered world heritage site by UNESCO. However, concerns remains for damage to ecosystem's corals due to climate change and other factors.

At a World Heritage Committee meeting chaired by China, delegates voted to delay the decision, after a concerted lobbying effort by Canberra.

The Great Barrier Reef has suffered three mass coral bleaching events in past five years. By some measures, the Reef has lost half of its corals since 1995 as ocean temperatures have increased.

Moreover, cyclones have battered the reef. Outbreak of crown-of-thorns starfish has also damaged the reef. Crown-of-thorns starfish eat the corals.

"It's a warning to the international community and all of humanity that the coral ecosystem is in danger," Fanny Douvere, the head of UNESCO's World Heritage marine programme, said in June.

Australian government scientists say the corals have made a comeback over the past year, but acknowledge that will not improve the ecosystem's "very poor" long-term outlook.

What is World Heritage List?

World Heritage List is a UNESCO list that mentions sites all over the world. These sites have historical, scientific, cultural or other forms of importance. When a site gets listed, it is demarcated by UNESCO as a protected site.&nbsp;

Inclusion in the list increases chances of the site being better cared for and protected as it comes on international radar. The heritage list has helped conservation of sites all over the world.

Great Barrier Reef has escaped the prospect of being listed as endangered world heritage site by UNESCO. However, concerns remains for damage to ecosystem's corals due to climate change and other factors.

Great Barrier Reef has escaped the prospect of being listed as endangered world heritage site by UNESCO. However, concerns remains for damage to ecosystem's corals due to climate change and other factors. At a World Heritage Committee meeting chaired by China, delegates voted to delay the decision, after a concerted lobbying effort by Canberra. The Great Barrier Reef has suffered three mass coral bleaching events in past five years. By some measures, the Reef has lost half of its corals since 1995 as ocean temperatures have increased. Moreover, cyclones have battered the reef. Outbreak of crown-of-thorns starfish has also damaged the reef. Crown-of-thorns starfish eat the corals. "It's a warning to the international community and all of humanity that the coral ecosystem is in danger," Fanny Douvere, the head of UNESCO's World Heritage marine programme, said in June. Australian government scientists say the corals have made a comeback over the past year, but acknowledge that will not improve the ecosystem's "very poor" long-term outlook. What is World Heritage List? World Heritage List is a UNESCO list that mentions sites all over the world. These sites have historical, scientific, cultural or other forms of importance. When a site gets listed, it is demarcated by UNESCO as a protected site. Inclusion in the list increases chances of the site being better cared for and protected as it comes on international radar. The heritage list has helped conservation of sites all over the world.

Great Barrier Reef won't be listed as endangered heritage site for now

South Korea is hoping four of its Getbol tidal flats will be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. About a million birds from 300 different species use the flats as a stopover each year, according to UNESCO.

South Korea's tidal flats considered for UNESCO World Heritage status

Archaeologists have unearthed a unique ancient-Roman ceremonial carriage from a villa just outside&nbsp;Pompeii, the city buried in a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.

The almost perfectly preserved four-wheeled carriage made of iron, bronze and tin was found near the stables of an ancient villa at Civita Giuliana, around 700 metres (yards) north of the walls of ancient&nbsp;Pompeii.

Massimo Osanna, the outgoing director of the&nbsp;Pompeii&nbsp;archaeological site, said the carriage was the first of its kind discovered in the area, which had so far yielded functional vehicles used for transport and work, but not for ceremonies.

The culture ministry called it "a unique find, without any precedent in Italy."

Pompeii, 23 km (14 miles) southeast of Naples, was home to about 13,000 people when it was buried under ash, pumice pebbles and dust as it endured the force of an eruption equivalent to many atomic bombs.

About two-thirds of the 66-hectare (165-acre) ancient town has been uncovered. The ruins were not discovered until the 16th century and organised excavations began about 1750.

A rare documentation of Greco-Roman life,&nbsp;Pompeii&nbsp;is one of Italy's most popular attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Archaeologists have unearthed a unique ancient-Roman ceremonial carriage from a villa just outside Pompeii, the city buried in a volcanic eruption in 79 AD. The almost perfectly preserved four-wheeled carriage made of iron, bronze and tin was found near the stables of an ancient villa at Civita Giuliana, around 700 metres (yards) north of the walls of ancient Pompeii.

Archaeologists have unearthed a unique ancient-Roman ceremonial carriage from a villa just outside Pompeii, the city buried in a volcanic eruption in 79 AD. The almost perfectly preserved four-wheeled carriage made of iron, bronze and tin was found near the stables of an ancient villa at Civita Giuliana, around 700 metres (yards) north of the walls of ancient Pompeii. Massimo Osanna, the outgoing director of the Pompeii archaeological site, said the carriage was the first of its kind discovered in the area, which had so far yielded functional vehicles used for transport and work, but not for ceremonies. The culture ministry called it "a unique find, without any precedent in Italy." Pompeii, 23 km (14 miles) southeast of Naples, was home to about 13,000 people when it was buried under ash, pumice pebbles and dust as it endured the force of an eruption equivalent to many atomic bombs. About two-thirds of the 66-hectare (165-acre) ancient town has been uncovered. The ruins were not discovered until the 16th century and organised excavations began about 1750. A rare documentation of Greco-Roman life, Pompeii is one of Italy's most popular attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Archaeologists uncover ancient ceremonial carriage near Pompeii

Another monolith has mysteriously appeared in southeastern Turkey, and authorities are searching for clues that may give more insight into its manifestation at the place.

The monolith, 3 metres high (about 10 feet), was discovered near the UNESCO World Heritage site named Gobekli Tepe. It has megalithic structures dating to the 10th millennium BC, thousands of years before Stonehenge. The metal block was found by a farmer Friday in Sanliurfa province.

Gendarmes were looking through CCTV footage and investigating vehicles that may have transported the monolith.

According to local media reports, the shiny metal monolith is inscribed in an script with the phrase "If you want to see the moon, look at the sky."

Security forces were called to the scene as curious locals sought to get a look at the monolith, which resembles a mysterious object which appeared in a desert in Utah in America last year, but then vanished.

Other mysterious monoliths have popped up and some have disappeared in numerous countries in recent months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-trips-across-the-world-monolith-makes-india-debut-353647">Also read |&nbsp;After trips across the world, monolith makes India debut</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monolith-christmas-edition-because-this-one-is-made-of-gingerbread-352528">Also read |&nbsp;Monolith Christmas edition? Because this one is made of Gingerbread</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-monolith-pops-up-in-texas-this-time-348451">Also read |&nbsp;Another monolith pops up, in Texas this time</a>

Another monolith has mysteriously appeared in southeastern Turkey, and authorities are searching for clues that may give more insight into its manifestation at the place.

Another monolith has mysteriously appeared in southeastern Turkey, and authorities are searching for clues that may give more insight into its manifestation at the place. The monolith, 3 metres high (about 10 feet), was discovered near the UNESCO World Heritage site named Gobekli Tepe. It has megalithic structures dating to the 10th millennium BC, thousands of years before Stonehenge. The metal block was found by a farmer Friday in Sanliurfa province. Gendarmes were looking through CCTV footage and investigating vehicles that may have transported the monolith. According to local media reports, the shiny metal monolith is inscribed in an script with the phrase "If you want to see the moon, look at the sky." Security forces were called to the scene as curious locals sought to get a look at the monolith, which resembles a mysterious object which appeared in a desert in Utah in America last year, but then vanished. Other mysterious monoliths have popped up and some have disappeared in numerous countries in recent months. Also read | After trips across the world, monolith makes India debut Also read | Monolith Christmas edition? Because this one is made of Gingerbread Also read | Another monolith pops up, in Texas this time

Mysterious monolith pops up near Turkish world heritage site

A huge car&nbsp;geoglyph has been discovered&nbsp;etched at a world UNESCO world heritage site at&nbsp;Nazca valley in&nbsp;Peru.

According to archeologists, the&nbsp;geoglyph, which dates back from 200-100BC, depicts an enormous cat lounging across a desert hillside.

The lines etched at the world&nbsp;heritage site at&nbsp;Nazca valley are made up of hundreds of geomorphic and zoomorphic images created by removing rocks and earth.

The cat is 37 meters long and had well-defined lines that varied in width between 30cm and 40cm.

It lies 400 kilometres south of Lima and cover about 450 sq km's of Peru's arid coastal plain.

Peru’s culture ministry said in a statement,&nbsp;“The figure was scarcely visible and was about to disappear because it’s situated on quite a steep slope that’s prone to the effects of natural erosion.”

“Over the past week, the geoglyph was cleaned and conserved, and shows a feline figure in profile, with its head facing the front.”&nbsp;

Johny Isla, Peru’s chief archaeologist for the lines said,&nbsp;“It’s quite striking that we’re still finding new figures, but we also know that there are more to be found.”&nbsp;

A huge car geoglyph has been discovered etched at a world UNESCO world heritage site at Nazca valley in Peru. According to archeologists, the geoglyph, which dates back from 200-100BC, depicts an enormous cat lounging across a desert hillside.

A huge car geoglyph has been discovered etched at a world UNESCO world heritage site at Nazca valley in Peru. According to archeologists, the geoglyph, which dates back from 200-100BC, depicts an enormous cat lounging across a desert hillside. The lines etched at the world heritage site at Nazca valley are made up of hundreds of geomorphic and zoomorphic images created by removing rocks and earth. The cat is 37 meters long and had well-defined lines that varied in width between 30cm and 40cm. It lies 400 kilometres south of Lima and cover about 450 sq km's of Peru's arid coastal plain. Peru’s culture ministry said in a statement, “The figure was scarcely visible and was about to disappear because it’s situated on quite a steep slope that’s prone to the effects of natural erosion.” “Over the past week, the geoglyph was cleaned and conserved, and shows a feline figure in profile, with its head facing the front.” Johny Isla, Peru’s chief archaeologist for the lines said, “It’s quite striking that we’re still finding new figures, but we also know that there are more to be found.”

Massive cat geoglyph found at UNESCO world heritage site in Nazca, Peru

To step into the historic Sunder Nursery in Delhi at this time of the year is to be greeted by the summer breeze, sounds of birds -- especially peacocks, and a lot of greenery. It took the Delhites a decade to have a detailed know of this legendary park situated at the heart of city; but it was worth the wait.

A 16th-century heritage park complex adjacent to the Humayun's Tomb, the Sunder Nursery was opened for the general public after a decade of restoration work by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture almost two years ago. The UNESCO, however, had declared the Nursery a world heritage site in 2016 -- even before it could be fully renovated.

Since February 2018, a lot of factors in and around this area have shown remarkable improvement.

The newly restored portions are pristine. The water table has shown a significant rise owing to rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts. All the rainwater that gets collected is either taken to the lake or to the ampitheatre -- which alone can collect up to 6-7 lakh litres of water after a rainfall.

The water collected at the amphitheatre trickles down to the well. The well-maintained levels of underground water have also given rise to a lot of flora in the nursery.

Currently, the main zone of the nursery features 15 historical monuments -- in Central Asian style -- including the seven wells. It is also housed by about 300 tree species -- as Delhi’s first arboretum -- and is visited by about 80 bird species.
<img alt="Sunder Nursery in Delhi (Source: The Aga Khan Trust)" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3df56fa2-7848-4486-8552-ca194a46db05" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sunder%20nursery.JPG" />
(Source: The Aga Khan Trust for Culture)

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture had signed a memorandum to redevelop Sunder Nursery in collaboration with Delhi's Central Public Works Department, the Archaeological Survey of India and the South Delhi Municipal Corporation in 2007. After a decade of work and patience, the 90-acre Sunder Nursery is now dotted with historical monuments, two amphitheatres, 280 tree species, 36 butterfly species, and a bonsai enclosure among other features.

Flanked on one side by the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, and the Purana Qila on the other, the nursery could not have existed at all. There was a proposal to build a road right through Sunder Nursery to connect NH 24 to Lodhi Road to facilitate better access to the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium -- in view of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. It was later dropped due to protests by environmentalists.

Sunder Nursery has also been picked out by the TIME Magazine as one of World's Best Places.

But -- fortunately or unfortunately -- most visitors and tourists do not even know a place like this even exists. Fortunately, because it is still left untouched by land pollution. And unfortunately, because a UNESCO World Heritage Site needs to be visited more, and marketed even more.

Nevertheless, the touristy space serves as a great weekend getaway. And the best part is it doesn't even burn a hole in your pocket.

To step into the historic Sunder Nursery in Delhi at this time of the year is to be greeted by the summer breeze, sounds of birds -- especially peacocks, and a lot of greenery.

To step into the historic Sunder Nursery in Delhi at this time of the year is to be greeted by the summer breeze, sounds of birds -- especially peacocks, and a lot of greenery. It took the Delhites a decade to have a detailed know of this legendary park situated at the heart of city; but it was worth the wait. A 16th-century heritage park complex adjacent to the Humayun's Tomb, the Sunder Nursery was opened for the general public after a decade of restoration work by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture almost two years ago. The UNESCO, however, had declared the Nursery a world heritage site in 2016 -- even before it could be fully renovated. Since February 2018, a lot of factors in and around this area have shown remarkable improvement. The newly restored portions are pristine. The water table has shown a significant rise owing to rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts. All the rainwater that gets collected is either taken to the lake or to the ampitheatre -- which alone can collect up to 6-7 lakh litres of water after a rainfall. The water collected at the amphitheatre trickles down to the well. The well-maintained levels of underground water have also given rise to a lot of flora in the nursery. Currently, the main zone of the nursery features 15 historical monuments -- in Central Asian style -- including the seven wells. It is also housed by about 300 tree species -- as Delhi’s first arboretum -- and is visited by about 80 bird species. (Source: The Aga Khan Trust for Culture) The Aga Khan Trust for Culture had signed a memorandum to redevelop Sunder Nursery in collaboration with Delhi's Central Public Works Department, the Archaeological Survey of India and the South Delhi Municipal Corporation in 2007. After a decade of work and patience, the 90-acre Sunder Nursery is now dotted with historical monuments, two amphitheatres, 280 tree species, 36 butterfly species, and a bonsai enclosure among other features. Flanked on one side by the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, and the Purana Qila on the other, the nursery could not have existed at all. There was a proposal to build a road right through Sunder Nursery to connect NH 24 to Lodhi Road to facilitate better access to the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium -- in view of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. It was later dropped due to protests by environmentalists. Sunder Nursery has also been picked out by the TIME Magazine as one of World's Best Places. But -- fortunately or unfortunately -- most visitors and tourists do not even know a place like this even exists. Fortunately, because it is still left untouched by land pollution. And unfortunately, because a UNESCO World Heritage Site needs to be visited more, and marketed even more. Nevertheless, the touristy space serves as a great weekend getaway. And the best part is it doesn't even burn a hole in your pocket.

A walk through one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites: Delhi's Sunder Nursery

Police believe a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fire-engulfs-world-heritage-castle-in-japans-okinawa-258989">fire that tore through</a> World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources.

In analysing the evidence, such as surveillance footage at the destroyed castle, local police have found no traces of intrusion into the castle before the fire breaking out, Kyodo reported, citing unnamed investigators.

The blaze was believed to have started in the main hall early on Thursday morning, public broadcaster NHK said. The fire was put out nearly 12 hours later, but by then most of the wooden castle's major buildings had been reduced to charred skeletons.

A spokesman at the main police station at Naha, the capital city of Okinawa prefecture, said investigations are still going on and the police have not excluded any possibilities. "As we are still in the middle of the investigation, we can't say anything further," he said.

Shuri Castle, once a palace and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom which flourished from the 15th to 19th century, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 and was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

Police believe a fire that tore through World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources.

Police believe a fire that tore through World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle in Japan's southern-most island of Okinawa this week was not likely to have been caused by arson, Kyodo news agency reported on late Friday, citing sources. In analysing the evidence, such as surveillance footage at the destroyed castle, local police have found no traces of intrusion into the castle before the fire breaking out, Kyodo reported, citing unnamed investigators. The blaze was believed to have started in the main hall early on Thursday morning, public broadcaster NHK said. The fire was put out nearly 12 hours later, but by then most of the wooden castle's major buildings had been reduced to charred skeletons. A spokesman at the main police station at Naha, the capital city of Okinawa prefecture, said investigations are still going on and the police have not excluded any possibilities. "As we are still in the middle of the investigation, we can't say anything further," he said. Shuri Castle, once a palace and cultural heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom which flourished from the 15th to 19th century, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 and was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

Police believe Japan's castle fire unlikely caused by arson: Report

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton.

Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am&nbsp;(1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours.

"The main hall has burned down and the castle's dragon monuments have been blackened," Japanese media quoted Mikiko Shiroma, mayor of Naha city where the castle is located, as saying.

"This is truly regrettable."

The wooden castle is painted bright red and enclosed by curved stone walls. It sits on a hill overlooking Naha.

The fire engulfed the popular tourist attraction in the middle of its annual mid-autumn festival. The castle was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route.

The city's fire department said that while the castle had exterior sprinkler systems, its halls were not so equipped as this was not required under local fire codes.

Shuri Castle has been destroyed by fire several times, most recently in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

After World War 2, it served as a university campus until the mid-1970s. Following a reconstruction, it re-opened as a national park in 1992 and was designated a World Heritage site in 2000.

In addition to the main hall, the north and south halls have been destroyed, NHK said.

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton. Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am (1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours.

A fire tore through Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle on Thursday, reducing the main hall of the more than 500-year-old landmark to a skeleton. Emergency responders on the southern island of Okinawa received the first call around 2:47 am (1747 GMT), public broadcaster NHK said, and firefighters were still battling the flames into the daylight hours. "The main hall has burned down and the castle's dragon monuments have been blackened," Japanese media quoted Mikiko Shiroma, mayor of Naha city where the castle is located, as saying. "This is truly regrettable." The wooden castle is painted bright red and enclosed by curved stone walls. It sits on a hill overlooking Naha. The fire engulfed the popular tourist attraction in the middle of its annual mid-autumn festival. The castle was also a scheduled stop on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay route. The city's fire department said that while the castle had exterior sprinkler systems, its halls were not so equipped as this was not required under local fire codes. Shuri Castle has been destroyed by fire several times, most recently in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. After World War 2, it served as a university campus until the mid-1970s. Following a reconstruction, it re-opened as a national park in 1992 and was designated a World Heritage site in 2000. In addition to the main hall, the north and south halls have been destroyed, NHK said.

Fire engulfs Japan's World Heritage-listed Shuri Castle

The long-term outlook for Australia's Great Barrier Reef has been downgraded to "very poor" for the first time by the official agency charged with managing the World Heritage Site.

'Great Barrier Reef outlook very poor', says Australia

UNESCO has added the ancient city of Babylon as UNESCO World Heritage Site on Friday, July 5.

UNESCO lists Babylon as World Heritage Site

The Bellary police has intensified their investigation into the vandalism at the UNESCO world heritage site in Hampi of Karnataka, an official said.

A carved stone pillar at <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-shows-miscreants-damaging-world-heritage-site-hampi-in-karnataka-194615">Hampi</a> was allegedly damaged by miscreants and the video of it has gone viral on social media.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Young Indian men vandalize Hampi, the <a href="https://twitter.com/UNESCO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNESCO</a> World Heritage site which is on <a href="https://twitter.com/nytimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nytimes</a> 52 places to visit in 2019 <a href="https://t.co/FuBjAJpLpj">https://t.co/FuBjAJpLpj</a> 
and post a video celebrating their act. I hope they are caught and made an example of in terms of a long prison sentence h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/WhatsApp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhatsApp</a> <a href="https://t.co/v5DUM7xhuw">pic.twitter.com/v5DUM7xhuw</a>
— Raju Narisetti (@raju) <a href="https://twitter.com/raju/status/1091718932204060673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The clip, which surfaced Saturday, purportedly showed three men pushing the artistically carved stone pillar to the ground, following which it breaks and the trio rejoice.

Other damaged pillars are also shown lying around, but it was not immediately clear whether the men in the video had damaged it.

A person from Betul in Madhya Pradesh shared the videos on Instagram under an identity 'DigitalAyush'. However, the account was deleted ever since the video went viral.

Arun Rangarajan, the SP of Bellary under which Hampi falls, said, "Three teams have been formed to nab the culprits. We have sufficient leads in this case and they will be arrested soon."

"They were tourists who did it just for excitement. There were no other motives," he said.

Karnataka Water Resources Minister D K Shivakumar had on Saturday said stringent action would be taken against those responsible.

Recently, Hampi, the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar empire, known for its rich architecture, was listed second on New York Times list of 52 must-go sites in the world.

The Bellary police has intensified their investigation into the vandalism at the UNESCO world heritage site in Hampi of Karnataka, an official said. A carved stone pillar at Hampi was allegedly damaged by miscreants and the video of it has gone viral on social media.

The Bellary police has intensified their investigation into the vandalism at the UNESCO world heritage site in Hampi of Karnataka, an official said. A carved stone pillar at Hampi was allegedly damaged by miscreants and the video of it has gone viral on social media. Young Indian men vandalize Hampi, the @UNESCO World Heritage site which is on @nytimes 52 places to visit in 2019 https://t.co/FuBjAJpLpj and post a video celebrating their act. I hope they are caught and made an example of in terms of a long prison sentence h/t @WhatsApp pic.twitter.com/v5DUM7xhuw — Raju Narisetti (@raju) February 2, 2019 × The clip, which surfaced Saturday, purportedly showed three men pushing the artistically carved stone pillar to the ground, following which it breaks and the trio rejoice. Other damaged pillars are also shown lying around, but it was not immediately clear whether the men in the video had damaged it. A person from Betul in Madhya Pradesh shared the videos on Instagram under an identity 'DigitalAyush'. However, the account was deleted ever since the video went viral. Arun Rangarajan, the SP of Bellary under which Hampi falls, said, "Three teams have been formed to nab the culprits. We have sufficient leads in this case and they will be arrested soon." "They were tourists who did it just for excitement. There were no other motives," he said. Karnataka Water Resources Minister D K Shivakumar had on Saturday said stringent action would be taken against those responsible. Recently, Hampi, the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar empire, known for its rich architecture, was listed second on New York Times list of 52 must-go sites in the world.

Police intensify probe into vandalism at world heritage site Hampi in Karnataka

&nbsp;

Recently surfaced before and after shots of Benidorm &ndash; a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Spain &ndash; capture the physical transformations that have taken place in the region in less than 50 years.

Gone is the small fishing village of single story houses and olive groves, and in its place has arisen the highest density of skyscrapers in Europe. The economic and social opportunities that have accompanied these changes have altered traditional lifestyles just as dramatically. And it has even been proposed Benidorm should be made a World Heritage Site in recognition of its tourism-driven cultural transformation.

But despite the obvious benefits tourism can bring to an area, the change can be disruptive, and development can challenge preexisting economic, social and environmental models. In the Isle of Man, for example, where I conduct much of my research, a current controversial proposal is to build a caravan park in an isolated area of natural beauty.

But of course, tourism also has many positives and it often paves the way for empowering minorities. Research in Goa, India, for example, shows that tourism enterprises tend to be owned mainly by women, giving them a source of income, independence and respect in a traditionally male-dominated society.

From Costa Rica to the Scottish Highlands

This is why sustainable development &ndash; an approach which tries to balance social, environmental and economic needs long term &ndash; is essential to make sure tourism brings impacts that are more on the positive side and less on the negative.

Involving local people in tourism is usually the place to start, because it is local people who ultimately establish the atmosphere of a destination. Carefully planned eco-tourism in Costa Rica for example, has involved local residents with the new developments to ensure any problems that arise are resolved.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/196300/original/file-20171124-21811-1gpffiy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
The Nicoya Peninsula is on Costa Rica&rsquo;s Pacific coast. Wikimedia Commons, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/">CC BY-ND</a>

Similar involvement over in Scotland, has seen the West Highland Railway Line run by local volunteers. And it is their enthusiasm that has helped to create a welcoming and award-winning tourist attraction. By contrast, research in Cuba found local people who felt excluded from tourism developments turned their frustrations towards visitors &ndash; damaging the island&rsquo;s reputation as an enjoyable place to holiday in the process.
</figcaption>
</figure>

Expecting the unexpected

But of course, the ultimate aim of sustainable development is to protect the existing economic, social and environmental landscapes of a place. These are after all, what tourists come to explore. So rather than making a quick profit for a few, the idea is that sustainable tourism is something that will stand the test of time and bring diverse benefits for many.

Shark tourism is one example of a fast-growing and lucrative activity which encourages people to enjoy, and make reliable livelihoods from these creatures &ndash; rather than eat them into oblivion, or kill them to sell their fins for traditional medicine.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/196301/original/file-20171124-21805-wdk3gc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>Fresh shark fins drying on sidewalk at Hong Kong. Cloneofsnake/Flickr</figcaption>
</figure>

&nbsp;

But tourism can be an unpredictable industry and various challenges have left many formerly successful tourist destinations struggling to maintain visitor numbers. A series of terrorist attacks in Tunisia, for example, has seen the number of tourists drop by a third since 2014.

Changing tastes and increased competition has also seen many formerly vibrant seaside towns both in the UK and overseas struggling. Malta, for example, has had to work hard to rebrand itself as a cultural destination rather than a budget sun, sea and sand one.

On the down

So what happens when the tourists stop visiting? Well, if it&rsquo;s not managed carefully, it can undermine the whole economic, social and environmental fabric of a place &ndash; and can lead to many socioeconomic problems. High levels of poverty, unemployment, and ill health can be found in many former coastal resorts of the UK &ndash; which have struggled to find new sources of economic diversity. Blackpool, England&rsquo;s emblematic seaside town for example, was recently estimated to have the lowest life expectancy for men and women in the country.

Not far away from Blackpool on the Isle of Man, much of the beautiful Victorian architecture built to serve the once large tourist crowds have been demolished. Yet fearless riders come every year to ride in the island&rsquo;s legendary Tourist Trophy (TT) motorbike races. Cheered on by crowds of visiting enthusiasts, this century old event keeps tradition alive, and at the same time it has evolved to stay relevant. In 2010, the first TT Zero race involving electric bikes took place.

<figure class="align-center "><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/199910/original/file-20171219-27541-65fwwf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" />
<figcaption>
The annual TT race festival attracted more than 42,000 people. Shutterstock

So when it comes to planning your holiday destination for the year ahead, try and choose somewhere that protects the local environment and respects human rights &ndash; and use local businesses rather than multinationals.

It&rsquo;s also worth reconsidering resorts that may have fallen out of fashion but still have much to offer. You&rsquo;ll still have a great time, and take some lovely photos, but it might just be that by choosing somewhere off the beaten track, you can make a difference to another person&rsquo;s life in the process.

&nbsp;

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

&nbsp;
</figcaption>
</figure>

When it comes to planning your holiday destination for the year ahead, try and choose somewhere that protects the local environment and respects human rights ? and use local businesses rather than multinationals.

Recently surfaced before and after shots of Benidorm – a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Spain – capture the physical transformations that have taken place in the region in less than 50 years. Gone is the small fishing village of single story houses and olive groves, and in its place has arisen the highest density of skyscrapers in Europe. The economic and social opportunities that have accompanied these changes have altered traditional lifestyles just as dramatically. And it has even been proposed Benidorm should be made a World Heritage Site in recognition of its tourism-driven cultural transformation. But despite the obvious benefits tourism can bring to an area, the change can be disruptive, and development can challenge preexisting economic, social and environmental models. In the Isle of Man, for example, where I conduct much of my research, a current controversial proposal is to build a caravan park in an isolated area of natural beauty. But of course, tourism also has many positives and it often paves the way for empowering minorities. Research in Goa, India, for example, shows that tourism enterprises tend to be owned mainly by women, giving them a source of income, independence and respect in a traditionally male-dominated society. From Costa Rica to the Scottish Highlands This is why sustainable development – an approach which tries to balance social, environmental and economic needs long term – is essential to make sure tourism brings impacts that are more on the positive side and less on the negative. Involving local people in tourism is usually the place to start, because it is local people who ultimately establish the atmosphere of a destination. Carefully planned eco-tourism in Costa Rica for example, has involved local residents with the new developments to ensure any problems that arise are resolved. The Nicoya Peninsula is on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-ND Similar involvement over in Scotland, has seen the West Highland Railway Line run by local volunteers. And it is their enthusiasm that has helped to create a welcoming and award-winning tourist attraction. By contrast, research in Cuba found local people who felt excluded from tourism developments turned their frustrations towards visitors – damaging the island’s reputation as an enjoyable place to holiday in the process. Expecting the unexpected But of course, the ultimate aim of sustainable development is to protect the existing economic, social and environmental landscapes of a place. These are after all, what tourists come to explore. So rather than making a quick profit for a few, the idea is that sustainable tourism is something that will stand the test of time and bring diverse benefits for many. Shark tourism is one example of a fast-growing and lucrative activity which encourages people to enjoy, and make reliable livelihoods from these creatures – rather than eat them into oblivion, or kill them to sell their fins for traditional medicine. Fresh shark fins drying on sidewalk at Hong Kong. Cloneofsnake/Flickr But tourism can be an unpredictable industry and various challenges have left many formerly successful tourist destinations struggling to maintain visitor numbers. A series of terrorist attacks in Tunisia, for example, has seen the number of tourists drop by a third since 2014. Changing tastes and increased competition has also seen many formerly vibrant seaside towns both in the UK and overseas struggling. Malta, for example, has had to work hard to rebrand itself as a cultural destination rather than a budget sun, sea and sand one. On the down So what happens when the tourists stop visiting? Well, if it’s not managed carefully, it can undermine the whole economic, social and environmental fabric of a place – and can lead to many socioeconomic problems. High levels of poverty, unemployment, and ill health can be found in many former coastal resorts of the UK – which have struggled to find new sources of economic diversity. Blackpool, England’s emblematic seaside town for example, was recently estimated to have the lowest life expectancy for men and women in the country. Not far away from Blackpool on the Isle of Man, much of the beautiful Victorian architecture built to serve the once large tourist crowds have been demolished. Yet fearless riders come every year to ride in the island’s legendary Tourist Trophy (TT) motorbike races. Cheered on by crowds of visiting enthusiasts, this century old event keeps tradition alive, and at the same time it has evolved to stay relevant. In 2010, the first TT Zero race involving electric bikes took place. The annual TT race festival attracted more than 42,000 people. Shutterstock So when it comes to planning your holiday destination for the year ahead, try and choose somewhere that protects the local environment and respects human rights – and use local businesses rather than multinationals. It’s also worth reconsidering resorts that may have fallen out of fashion but still have much to offer. You’ll still have a great time, and take some lovely photos, but it might just be that by choosing somewhere off the beaten track, you can make a difference to another person’s life in the process. This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: How to make your holiday better for the environment

Two coaches and the engine of Toy Train, a part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways derailed in between the Mahanadi and Dayabari station near Kurseong in Darjeeling district of India&#39;s state of West Bengal on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

According to initial reports, as many as 10 passengers, including the motor man of the train, were injured in the derailment. However, the Darjeeling Superintendent of Police, Amit Javalgi said, &ldquo;We have received such information and are looking into it.&rdquo;&nbsp;

All injured have been rushed to a hospital in Kurseong.&nbsp;

The Toy train was accorded world heritage status by UNESCO on December 2, 1999.&nbsp;

The two versions of the toy train &mdash; steam and diesel &mdash; run between Siliguri and Darjeeling. &nbsp;

The train leaves from Ghoom Station, which is the highest point reached by the railway (7,407ft), and from here there is a descent for four miles down a spur to 
Darjeeling Station (6,812ft).

Loops are the speciality of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway since they help in gaining height for the rail line skiting along the mountain.&nbsp;

(WION)

Two kinds of the toy train ? steam and diesel ? run between Siliguri and Darjeeling

Two coaches and the engine of Toy Train, a part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways derailed in between the Mahanadi and Dayabari station near Kurseong in Darjeeling district of India's state of West Bengal on Tuesday afternoon. According to initial reports, as many as 10 passengers, including the motor man of the train, were injured in the derailment. However, the Darjeeling Superintendent of Police, Amit Javalgi said, “We have received such information and are looking into it.” All injured have been rushed to a hospital in Kurseong. The Toy train was accorded world heritage status by UNESCO on December 2, 1999. The two versions of the toy train — steam and diesel — run between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The train leaves from Ghoom Station, which is the highest point reached by the railway (7,407ft), and from here there is a descent for four miles down a spur to Darjeeling Station (6,812ft). Loops are the speciality of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway since they help in gaining height for the rail line skiting along the mountain. (WION)

10 injured as Darjeeling Toy Train, of world heritage fame, derails in India's Bengal

The United Nations&#39;s cultural agency expressed concern Wednesday over the poor maintenance of a centuries-old cave temple in Sri Lanka, which risks being struck off the list of world heritage sites. 
 
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)director-general Irina Bokova said she raised the maintenance issue at the Golden Temple of Dambulla with local authorities during her visit to the island. 
 
The Sri Lankan government is bound by international treaty obligations to protect the cave monastery which is home to 2,000-year-old murals and 157 Buddha statues, she told reporters in Colombo at the end of her four-day visit. 
 
A team of experts who visited the site in central Sri Lanka last year found the site poorly maintained and warned that new constructions have affected its heritage value, she said. 
 
A Buddhist monk at the temple has been resisting Sri Lankan government efforts to take over the maintenance of the temple, but Bokova said it was the responsibility of the Sri Lankan state to ensure that the property was well preserved. 
 
&quot;When the World Heritage Committee discusses a report of protection and preservation, it is the responsibility of the government,&quot; she said. 
 
&quot;We are talking about an international, legally binding document. The state party to the convention is the government of Sri Lanka.&quot; 
 
The cave temple is one of eight World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka and Bokova said she visited three of them. 
 
UN officials have expressed fears that the cave temple could be struck off the prestigious list of heritage sites unless immediate corrective action is taken to preserve frescoes and remove the new construction that has been added by resident monks. 
 
The first site to be removed from UNESCO&#39;s World Heritage List was the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Oman in 2007 after the government decided to reduce the size of the protected area by 90 percent -- in contravention of the heritage convention. 
 
The only other site to be removed was Germany&#39;s Dresden Elbe valley due to the building of a four-lane bridge in the heart of the cultural landscape which meant that the property failed to keep its &quot;outstanding universal value as inscribed. 
 
(AFP)&nbsp;

A Buddhist monk at the temple has been resisting Sri Lanka's maintenance efforts but UNESCO said the property should be well-preserved

The United Nations's cultural agency expressed concern Wednesday over the poor maintenance of a centuries-old cave temple in Sri Lanka, which risks being struck off the list of world heritage sites. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)director-general Irina Bokova said she raised the maintenance issue at the Golden Temple of Dambulla with local authorities during her visit to the island. The Sri Lankan government is bound by international treaty obligations to protect the cave monastery which is home to 2,000-year-old murals and 157 Buddha statues, she told reporters in Colombo at the end of her four-day visit. A team of experts who visited the site in central Sri Lanka last year found the site poorly maintained and warned that new constructions have affected its heritage value, she said. A Buddhist monk at the temple has been resisting Sri Lankan government efforts to take over the maintenance of the temple, but Bokova said it was the responsibility of the Sri Lankan state to ensure that the property was well preserved. "When the World Heritage Committee discusses a report of protection and preservation, it is the responsibility of the government," she said. "We are talking about an international, legally binding document. The state party to the convention is the government of Sri Lanka." The cave temple is one of eight World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka and Bokova said she visited three of them. UN officials have expressed fears that the cave temple could be struck off the prestigious list of heritage sites unless immediate corrective action is taken to preserve frescoes and remove the new construction that has been added by resident monks. The first site to be removed from UNESCO's World Heritage List was the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Oman in 2007 after the government decided to reduce the size of the protected area by 90 percent -- in contravention of the heritage convention. The only other site to be removed was Germany's Dresden Elbe valley due to the building of a four-lane bridge in the heart of the cultural landscape which meant that the property failed to keep its "outstanding universal value as inscribed. (AFP)

UN voices concern over maintenance of centuries-old cave temple in Sri Lanka

UNESCO has named Iraqi marshlands once ravaged by dictator Saddam Hussein as a World Heritage Site, a bright spot for a country where jihadists have repeatedly sought to wipe out history. 
 
The area named &quot;is made up of seven sites: three archaeological sites and four wetland marsh areas in southern Iraq,&quot; UNESCO said. 
&quot;The archaeological cities of Uruk and Ur and the Tell Eridu archaeological site form part of the remains of the Sumerian cities and settlements that developed in southern Mesopotamia between the 4th and the 3rd millennium BCE,&quot; it said. 
 
&quot;The Ahwar of Southern Iraq - also known as the Iraqi Marshlands - are unique, as one of the worlds largest inland delta systems, in an extremely hot and arid environment,&quot; UNESCO said. Iraq has been seeking World Heritage status for the marshes since 2003, and its government hailed the move. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi congratulated the Iraqi people on UNESCOs decision, and thanked &quot;all those who contributed to this success&quot;. 
 
Abadi also said that culture in the country will continue &quot;despite the destruction and demolition of Iraqi heritage and antiquities by barbaric terrorist gangs&quot;. He was referring to Islamic State group&#39;s destruction of artefacts at the Mosul museum and the ancient cities of Nimrud and Hatra, the latter of which is a World Heritage Site. 
 
IS has sought to couch the destruction in religious terms, saying it was targeting idols, but that has not stopped it from selling artefacts to fund its operations. 
 
The marshlands once stretched across some 20,000 square kilometres, but they were devastated after Saddam ordered them drained in the 1990s to stop them being used as hideouts by Shiite guerrillas opposed to his regime.&nbsp;Many dams and canals ordered built by the dictator have now been demolished, allowing waters from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to flood back, fish and fowl to return and humans to settle once again. 
 
Dams farther upriver in Syria and Turkey still limit the flow of water into the marshes, and high levels of salinity have also been a problem in the south, killing fish and making the water undrinkable. 
 
(AFP)

The Ahwar of Southern Iraq are one of the world's largest inland delta systems. Iraq has been seeking World Heritage status since 2003

UNESCO has named Iraqi marshlands once ravaged by dictator Saddam Hussein as a World Heritage Site, a bright spot for a country where jihadists have repeatedly sought to wipe out history. The area named "is made up of seven sites: three archaeological sites and four wetland marsh areas in southern Iraq," UNESCO said. "The archaeological cities of Uruk and Ur and the Tell Eridu archaeological site form part of the remains of the Sumerian cities and settlements that developed in southern Mesopotamia between the 4th and the 3rd millennium BCE," it said. "The Ahwar of Southern Iraq - also known as the Iraqi Marshlands - are unique, as one of the worlds largest inland delta systems, in an extremely hot and arid environment," UNESCO said. Iraq has been seeking World Heritage status for the marshes since 2003, and its government hailed the move. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi congratulated the Iraqi people on UNESCOs decision, and thanked "all those who contributed to this success". Abadi also said that culture in the country will continue "despite the destruction and demolition of Iraqi heritage and antiquities by barbaric terrorist gangs". He was referring to Islamic State group's destruction of artefacts at the Mosul museum and the ancient cities of Nimrud and Hatra, the latter of which is a World Heritage Site. IS has sought to couch the destruction in religious terms, saying it was targeting idols, but that has not stopped it from selling artefacts to fund its operations. The marshlands once stretched across some 20,000 square kilometres, but they were devastated after Saddam ordered them drained in the 1990s to stop them being used as hideouts by Shiite guerrillas opposed to his regime. Many dams and canals ordered built by the dictator have now been demolished, allowing waters from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to flood back, fish and fowl to return and humans to settle once again. Dams farther upriver in Syria and Turkey still limit the flow of water into the marshes, and high levels of salinity have also been a problem in the south, killing fish and making the water undrinkable. (AFP)

UNESCO names Iraq marshlands a World Heritage Site