The Criteria for World Heritage Site Declaration

The process of declaring a site as a World Heritage Site is governed by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. To be considered for inclusion on the World Heritage List, a site must meet at least one of the ten criteria established by UNESCO. These criteria are designed to ensure that only sites of outstanding universal value are recognized and protected.

Criterion (i): To be of Outstanding Universal Value from the Point of View of Artistic or Scientific Importance

This criterion is applicable to sites that possess artistic or scientific value that is universally recognized. Examples include significant architectural works, sculptures, or paintings.

Criterion (ii): To Be an Outstanding Example of a Building, Architectural Ensemble, or Landscape That Embodies a Significant Stage in Human History

This criterion applies to sites that represent a significant stage in human history through their buildings, architectural ensembles, or landscapes. These sites should reflect the evolution of human civilization and cultural development.

Criterion (iii): To Bear Witness to an Exceptionally Rare Form of Human Adaptation to the Environment

Sites that exemplify unique and exceptional ways in which humans have adapted to their environment can be nominated under this criterion. This includes cultural landscapes and natural areas where human activities have shaped the landscape over time.

Criterion (iv): To Be an Outstanding Example of a Building, Architectural Ensemble, or Landscape That Reflects Human Creative Genius

This criterion applies to sites that showcase exceptional examples of human creativity in architecture and design. These can include innovative structures or landscapes that have had a significant impact on subsequent developments.

Criterion (v): To Be an Important Archeological Area That Is Representative of a Type, Tradition, or Form of Human Interaction with Their Environment That Is Directly Associated with a Living Cultural Practice

Sites nominated under this criterion should demonstrate how they are representative of past human interactions with their environment and how these practices continue to influence contemporary culture.

Criterion (vi): To Have Direct or Indirect Testimonial Value for Cultural Exchange

This criterion applies to sites that provide evidence for significant cultural exchanges between different peoples and civilizations. Such exchanges can be reflected in material culture, architecture, art, or other cultural expressions.

Criterion (vii): To Contain Superlative Natural Beauty That Contributes to an Area’s Outstanding Universal Value

Natural sites can be nominated if they possess superlative natural beauty that contributes significantly to their overall value. This includes landscapes with unique geological formations, diverse ecosystems, and rare species.

Criterion (viii): To Be Geologically or Physiographically Unique or Superlative Natural Features That Are