Ten natural sites of the Russian Federation are on the UNESCO World Heritage List (4 of them are recognized as natural phenomena of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance), and this is not counting another 15 sites that are cultural objects of protection. This is not at all surprising, because Russia is a truly immense country, with a vast territory, incredibly beautiful and diverse nature, with a rich cultural heritage.
If you want to see the pristine nature of Russia in its original form, then the Russians (and foreign tourists too) will have no difficulty in going to one of the natural reserves or national parks of the country, on the territory of which these ten objects are located that need constant protection at the international level ...
1. Forests of the Komi Republic
The area of these forests is more than 3 million hectares, on which there is a national park and a state biosphere reserve. This facility has opened a new page for Russia in environmental protection at the global level.
The virgin forests of Komi are known as the largest intact forests in Europe. They occupy an area of 32.600 square kilometers in the north of the Ural Mountains, within the Pechero-Ilychsky Reserve and the Yugyd Va National Park. By their composition, Komi forests belong to the taiga ecosystem. They are dominated by conifers. The western part of the forests falls on the area of the foothills, the eastern part - on the mountains themselves. The Komi forest area is distinguished by a variety of not only flora, but also fauna. More than two hundred species of birds live here, 40 species of rare mammals, and 16 species of fish live in the reservoirs, which are considered valuable for fishing, preserved since the Ice Age. For example, these types of fish include Siberian grayling and char char. Many inhabitants of the virgin forests of Komi are listed in the Red Book of the planet. This natural site of the Russian Federation was included in the UNESCO list in 1995 - the very first in the list.
2. Lake Baikal
For the whole world, Baikal is a lake, for residents of Russia who are in love with a unique natural object, Baikal is the sea! Located in Eastern Siberia, it is the deepest lake on the planet and, at the same time, the largest natural reservoir of fresh water in terms of volume. Baikal is shaped like a crescent. The maximum depth of the lake is 1642 meters with an average depth of 744. Baikal contains 19 percent of all fresh water on the planet. The lake is fed by more than three hundred rivers and streams. Baikal water is characterized by a high oxygen content. Its temperature rarely exceeds plus 8-9 degrees Celsius, even in the summer near the surface. The water of the lake is so clean and transparent that it allows you to see in depth at a distance of up to forty meters.
The oldest and deepest (approximately 1700 meters) on Earth, Lake Baikal covers an area of over three million hectares. The body of water that appeared about 25 million years ago was in almost complete isolation, due to which an amazing ecosystem was formed in its fresh waters, the study of which allows one to obtain information about the evolutionary processes taking place on the planet.
The lake, unique even on a global scale, is about 20% of all the resources of such necessary fresh water on Earth, as well as a delightful sight, inspiring with beauty and mesmerizing with the luxury of amazing landscapes.
Lake Baikal in 1996 was named a wonderful pearl by UNESCO and is included in the list of priceless heritage of the planet.
3. Kamchatka volcanoes .
This site was also included in the World Heritage List in 1996. Five years later (in 2001), the territory of the object, subject to international protection, expanded due to the movement of the lithospheric plates of the Pacific volcanic ring. Today the territory of the state biosphere reserve is about 4 million hectares. This area is called the "Natural Museum of Volcanology". As exhibits, both long extinct and active volcanoes of the Kamchatka Peninsula can serve. Moreover, each of the "exhibits" is an individual object, for the study of which there is not enough life.
In total, about 300 extinct volcanoes and 30 active volcanoes are currently located on the territory of this facility, but the number of the latter changes every year. The most interesting tourist attraction of this region is the Valley of Geysers in the Konotsky Biosphere Reserve. The mountain rivers of Kamchatka abound in huge numbers of salmon fish, and the coastal waters are home to many species of whales and dolphins.
4. Altai mountains
These mountains are called "Golden", as each species of animals, birds and fish is unique here. The Altai cedar forests and mammals with the most valuable commercial fur, which can be equated in value with gold, have been preserved here. The object covers an area of more than 1.5 million hectares, was included in the UNESCO list in 1998. The "golden" Altai mountains are located at the intersection of the mountain system of Siberia and Central Asia.
The vegetation of this region is unique, there are an abundance of alpine meadows, there are steppes, semi-deserts and tundra. Everything is unique here, from snow leopards to forms of mountainous reliefs. Teletskoye Lake, which is also called "Small Baikal", is called the pearl of the Altai Territory.
5. Natural Park "Lena Pillars"
The fabulously beautiful landscapes of the park are formed by hundred-meter rock formations that pacify the waters of the beautiful Lena River. "Lena Pillars" are located in the very heart of Sakha (Republic of Yakutia).
Such an amazing natural phenomenon owes its appearance to the continental climate, temperature fluctuations within which reach about one hundred degrees (+40 degrees in summer and -60 degrees in winter). The pillars are separated by deep ravines with steep slopes. Their formation took place under the influence of water, which contributes to the freezing of the soil and its weathering. Similar processes led to the fact that the ravines deepened and widened. In this case, water plays the role of a destroyer, posing a danger to the pillars.
The Lena Pillars, included in the list of the planet's heritage in 2012, are of interest not only from the point of view of aesthetic spectacle, it is also a unique archaeological zone, on the territory of which the remains of ancient animals of the Cambrian period were discovered.
This natural site covers an area of 1.27 million hectares. If we take into account the geological structure of the soil in the park, then this land can "tell" a lot about the history of the planet's development, about living organisms and vegetation.
Many remains of mammoths, bison, woolly rhinoceroses, Lena horses, reindeer and other remains of ancient mammals were found in Lena Pillars. The complex is inhabited today by 12 representatives of animals and birds listed in the Red Book of the planet. It is believed that the Lena Pillars have a huge "aesthetic influence" on a person due to its unique beauty of landscapes, bizarre relief with huge caves, fabulous stone statues, rocky spiers, niches and "towers".
6. Sikhote-Alin nature reserve
This territory, included in the UNESCO list in 2001, covers an area of about 0.4 million hectares. The object is valuable because unique deciduous forests and ancient coniferous forests have been preserved on its territory. There is also an incredible mixture of different species of flora and fauna, among which there are many rare species.
A large biosphere reserve in the Primorsky Territory was originally created to preserve the sable population. At present, it is the most convenient place for observing the life of the Amur tiger. A huge number of plants grow on the territory of the Sikhote-Alin Nature Reserve. More than a thousand of the highest species, more than a hundred - mosses, about four hundred - lichens, more than six hundred species of algae and more than five hundred - mushrooms.
The local fauna is represented by a large number of birds, marine invertebrates and insects. Many plants, birds, animals and insects are protected. Chinese schisandra,ginseng,Fori rhododendron and Palibina edelweiss, sika deer and Himalayan bear, black crane and stork, Japanese starling, Sakhalin sturgeon, fish owl and Machaon butterfly - they all found shelter in the Sikhote-Alin nature reserve.
7. Natural complex of the Wrangel Island reserve
The protected area, which was added to the UNESCO list of treasures in 2004, is located above the Arctic Circle. It includes the relief landscapes of Wrangel Island, whose area is over 7 thousand square meters. kilometers, and the Herald Island, whose area is 11 thousand square meters. kilometers, as well as the coastal waters of the East Siberian Sea and the Chukchi Sea.
This region managed to avoid glaciation, thanks to which the area is distinguished by an amazing biological diversity. The harsh climate of the protected area attracted walruses, who formed here the largest rookery in the Arctic. Polar bears also took a fancy to the picturesque land; the density of their ancestral dens in this region is considered the largest on the planet.
Over fifty species of birds nest here, among which there are both endemic and endangered ones. Gray whales rush here, choosing this place for feeding. Surprisingly, over four hundred species of vascular plants are found on the island, among which there are also endemics.
Here tourists can see the largest bird colonies in the eastern Arctic. Among the plant forms, relics of the Pleistocene prevail. The landscape of the island is unusual, as well as its water area. Many travelers dream of visiting this place.
8. Ubsunur Basin
The area of this unique biosphere reserve is 0.8 million hectares. The object was included in the UNESCO list in 2003. There is a large-scale salt lake on the border of Mongolia and the Russian Republic of Tuva. By the way, on the territory of Russia there are only seven sections of an intermountain basin with a shallow lake (up to 15 meters), the remaining five parts of the Transboundary Facility are located in Mongolia. Each of the seven sections of the basin on our territory is individual in appearance and in the plants that grow there depending on the landscapes.
Inhabitant of the Ubsunur Basin
ZHere you can see foothills with eternal areas of snow-capped peaks, there are also areas of mountain taiga, alpine meadows, wetlands, mountain tundra and even sandy deserts. The remnant mountains with bright vegetation and contrasting landscapes make the Ubsunur Basin especially picturesque. Endangered species of animals are found here - mountain sheep - argali, snow leopard, as well as many rare species of birds - geese, herons, terns, gulls, sandpipers, etc. During the excavation of ancient burial mounds on the territory of the basin, unique rock paintings, burials and stone sculptures were discovered ...
9. Putorana plateau
Included in the World Heritage List in 2010, this natural site in the Russian Federation covers a total area of more than 1.8 million hectares. This pristine basalt plateau in the north of Eastern Siberia, almost at the Arctic Circle, is invaluable in terms of study by geologists and geomorphologists. The mountainous terrain has a stepped landscape, flat-topped massifs are intersected by deep canyons. The plateau was formed at the turn of the Mesozoic and Paleozoic as a result of volcanic activity. Forty-layer deposits make it possible to study the structure of the planet.
Deep cracks in the plateau were formed by glaciers, which were subsequently filled with water, forming lakes with a unique appearance and a depth of up to 400 meters. There are many beautiful waterfalls on the plateau, one of which (in the valley of the Kanda River) has a height of 108 meters. In total, on the territory of the Putorana plateau, there are 25 thousand small and large lakes with a huge supply of fresh water. There are more than 30 species of mammals in this northern reserve, and they are all rare or relict.
The vegetation is represented by 400 species - mainly woodlands, mountain tundra and larch taiga. The plateau serves as a resting place for thousands of species of migratory birds.
The picturesque landscapes of the beautiful plateau coincide with the boundaries of the reserve of the same name located beyond the Arctic Circle, which adorns the territory of Central Siberia. A special charm of the area is betrayed by the zones replacing each other: virgin taiga, rich forest-tundra, colorful tundra landscapes and the fabulous beauty of the icy arctic deserts. The real decoration of the plateau: the curly ribbons of the rivers and the crystal saucer of the lake, filled with clear cold water. Through the inhospitable lands of the plateau, a road stretches along which deer migrate. This is an incredible sight, which can be observed less and less often in nature.
10. Territories of the Western Caucasus
The natural reserve with an area of 0.3 million hectares has been included in the UNESCO list since 1999. These territories are almost untouched by human civilization. Today they are protected not only by UNESCO, but also by other all-Russian and international organizations - Greenpeace, the Institute of Geography of the Russian Academy of Sciences, NABU, Dresden Technical University, the North Caucasus working group, etc. The territory of the reserve covers areas that stretch from the upper reaches of the river Kuban to the rivers Belaya and Malaya Laba..
Caucasus. Blooming rhododendron in the valley of the Upper Mzymta
The vegetation in this protected area is represented by coniferous and deciduous forests, crooked forests, mountain meadows, and a nival belt. Every third plant is considered relict here. Rare species of predatory birds nest here - osprey, bearded vultures, golden eagles, griffon vultures, etc. Among the large animals in the reserve you can see West Caucasian tigers, brown bears, wolves, Caucasian red deer, bison, etc. Tourists will be interested in seeing beautiful karst formations in this natural area with deep gorges, waterfalls, underground rivers, tarn lakes, moraines, circuses and valleys formed by mountain glaciers.
11. Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit is a sandy spit located on the coast of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. The Curonian Spit is a narrow and long saber-shaped strip of land separating the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea and stretching from the city of Zelenogradsk in the Kaliningrad region to the city of Klaipeda (Smiltyne) (Lithuania).
The length is 98 kilometers, the width ranges from 400 meters (in the area of the Lesnoy village) to 3.8 kilometers (in the area of Cape Bulvikyo, just north of Nida).
The Curonian Spit is a unique natural and anthropogenic landscape and a territory of exceptional aesthetic value: The Curonian Spit is the largest sandy body included in the Baltic sandy bar complex, which has no analogues in the world. The high level of biological diversity due to the combination of various landscapes - from desert (dunes) to tundra (raised bog) - gives an idea of important and long-term ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, river, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals. The location of the spit and its relief are unique.
The most significant element of the spit relief is a continuous strip of sandy white dunes 0.3-1.0 km wide, some of them approaching the highest in the world (up to 68 m).
The Curonian Spit contains natural areas that are the most representative and important for the conservation of biological diversity, including those where endangered species are preserved that are of outstanding global importance in terms of science and nature conservation: due to its geographical position and orientation from the north-east to the south west it serves as a corridor for migratory birds of many species flying from the northwestern regions of Russia, Finland and the Baltic countries to the countries of Central and Southern Europe. Annually in spring and autumn, from 10 to 20 million birds fly over the spit, a significant part of which stop here for rest and feeding.
In the last entry, she has not posted all the architectural objects of Russia, marked by UNESCO for their uniqueness and historical value. Today I will add to this list ...
12. Citadel, old town and fortifications of Derbent .
The citadel, old town and fortifications of Derbent are the collective name under which UNESCO in 2003 included the medieval architectural heritage of the city of Derbent in the list of World Heritage Sites.
The history of ancient Derbent, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea, on the territory of modern Dagestan, has, according to archaeologists, five thousand years. This one of the most ancient cities in Russia was at first a small settlement founded at the foot of the spurs of the Caucasus Mountains, which later acquired impressive city fortifications.
However, the first documentary evidence of this place as a large city dates back to the 5th century. At this time, the Persian king Ezdegerd II ruled here, who appreciated its strategic location. This, incidentally, is reflected in the name, because Derbent translated from Iranian means "mountain outpost" or "mountain pass". Approximately 100 years later, another king, on the remains of former defensive structures, erected a fortified city, which is called the Old, with an impregnable fortress and powerful fortifications. Between these fortifications, stretching more than 40 kilometers deep into the Caucasus Mountains, a city was formed, which still retains its medieval character.
Citadel of Nary-kala
It continued to be a strategically important site until the 19th century. Derbent has experienced many dramatic events in the entire history of its existence: wars, assaults, periods of decline and prosperity, times of independence and subordination to other peoples. Nevertheless, this place has preserved many monuments from all these turbulent periods.
This: the citadel of Naryn-Kala, with thick and high walls, the ruins of the palace of the Derbent Khan, baths and a guardhouse;
13. Struve Geodetic Arc
The Struve arc is a network of 265 triangulation points, which are stone cubes laid in the ground with an edge length of 2 meters and a length of more than 2820 kilometers. It was created to determine the parameters of the Earth, its shape and size. It is named after its creator - the Russian astronomer Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struve (Vasily Yakovlevich Struve).
Struve's geodetic arc was measured by Struve and the staff of the Dorpat (Tartu) and Pulkovo observatories (whose director was Struve) for 40 years, from 1816 to 1855, for 2820 km from Fuglenese near Cape Nord-Kap in Norway (latitude 70 ° 40′11 ″ N) to the village of Staraya Nekrasovka, Odessa region, near the Danube (latitude 45 ° 20′03 ″ N), which formed a meridian arc with an amplitude of 25 ° 20′08 ″.
Struve geodetic arc, "Point Z", about. Gogland, Leningrad region
Currently, points of the arc can be found in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia (on the island of Gogland), Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Moldova (the village of Rud) and Ukraine. On January 28, 2004, these countries applied to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee with a proposal to approve the 34 preserved points of the Struve Arc as a World Heritage Site. In 2005 this proposal was accepted.
A story about other architectural monuments of Russia included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, Around the world
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In Russia, a lot of monuments and cultural heritage are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Now we will introduce you to some of them.
All these monuments and places are under the strict protection of the UN, UNESCO and a number of other organizations related to culture, science and education.
Moscow Kremlin and Red Square
Any resident of Russia knows what the Kremlin and Red Square are. Any tourist and resident of our vast homeland, the first thing when he comes to Moscow, visits these memorable places. UNESCO took over the protection of these sites in 1990.
This monument reflects the entire centuries-old history of Moscow and Russia in general. Also on the territory of the Kremlin there are unique objects of the foundry art of Russia: the Tsar Bell, which weighs more than 200 tons and is 6.6 m in diameter, and the Tsar Cannon, with its mass of 40 tons.
Lake Baikal
Baikal, a unique natural monument of Eastern Siberia, was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1996. The lake is the deepest in the world and contains 19% of the planet's fresh water reserves. When viewed from a height, the lake resembles a crescent, covers an area of over 3 million hectares and is fed by more than 300 rivers and streams.
Lake Baikal is one of the most picturesque
The water in the lake has an increased oxygen content, and due to its transparency, it is possible to discern a depth of up to 40 m. The age of the ancient lake is especially impressive - more than 25 million years, the complete isolation of which contributed to the development of a unique ecosystem in it.
Natural Park "Lena Pillars"
Included in the UNESCO National Heritage List in 2012, the Lena Pillars Park is the place where invaluable finds of the inhabitants of the Cambrian period were discovered. The park is located in the center of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) near the Lena River, occupying 1.27 million hectares.
"Lena Pillars" - a unique natural monument
The park is inhabited by 12 species of fauna listed in the Red Book. Due to its antiquity, the park is of particular interest for geology: the natural monument is distinguished by its relief, dotted with caves, stone spiers, towers and niches.
The architectural ensemble of the Kizhi churchyard
The unique architectural complex of wooden architecture of the 18th-19th centuries was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1990 and is an ensemble of two wooden churches and a bell tower in Karelia.
Kizhi Pogost is the embodiment of Russian architecture
It houses the Kizhi State Historical and Architectural Museum with many objects of wooden religious architecture, including an eight-winged windmill of 1929 and the Transfiguration Church, built without a single nail.
Novgorod historical monuments
The architectural complexes of Veliky Novgorod and its environs were included in the UNESCO National Heritage List in 1992. The number of cultural sites includes such significant Orthodox buildings of antiquity as the monasteries of Znamensky, Antoniev, Yuryev, Zverin, as well as the churches of the Nativity of Christ, the Savior on Nereditsa, the Kremlin Novgorod Detinets.
Monuments of Veliky Novgorod - a UNESCO heritage site
Wrangel Island Nature Reserve
The reserve was included in the UNESCO list in 2004. The unique protected area is known for its practically untouched natural ecosystem with the predominance of the largest population of polar bears, walruses, more than 50 species of birds.
Wrangel Island is famous for its pristine ecosystem
The territory of the reserve is located beyond the Arctic Circle, including Wrangel and Herald Island and the waters of the Chukchi and East Siberian Seas. Despite the harsh conditions of the Arctic waters, more than 400 plant species prevail.
Curonian Spit
The famous sand spit stretches for 98 km with a maximum width of up to 3.8 km, located on the dividing line of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. The natural landmark was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 2000 and is interesting for its unique anthropogenic landscape, which is represented by a variety of reliefs - from deserts to swampy tundras.
The Curonian Spit serves as a resting place for migratory birds
The spit is of great importance for the migration of 10 to 20 million birds and serves as a haven for them during rest. Only here you can find dunes up to 68 m in height, the width of which sometimes reaches 1 km.
Novodevichy Convent in Moscow
Since 2004, the monastery has been included in the UNESCO list, which since 1524 was one of the defensive structures of Moscow. In 1926, on the site of the monastery, a historical, household and historical museum was founded, and in 1980, the residence of Metropolitan Krutitsky and Kolomenskoye was located. In 1994, the convent was officially approved.
Previously, a historical museum was located in the Novodevichy Convent.
Komi forest
Recognized as the most virgin forests in Europe with a total area of 32,600 sq. km, which belong to the territory of the Pechero-Ilychsky nature reserve and occupy part of the YugydVa national park.
The Komi forest is famous for its virgin forests
Protected by UNESCO since 1995. The forests are distinguished by a variety of flora and fauna, and many plant species are on the verge of extinction and are listed in the Red Book.
Kamchatka volcanoes
The volcanoes of Kamchatka are considered part of the planet's Pacific volcanic ring of fire and have been protected by UNESCO since 1996. The surrounding landscapes with unique nature and biological diversity are especially impressive.
The number of volcanoes in Kamchatka is more than a thousand
Planet Earth is a bottomless treasury that has endowed a person with untold riches and made it possible to use its benefits to create comfortable living conditions. Therefore, the formation of society and its evolution have always occurred in interaction with nature. A clear confirmation of this are the cultural, historical and natural monuments included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Madain Salih Complex, Saudi Arabia
In the northern part of Saudi Arabia, there is a unique complex Madain Salih. It includes more than 100 burials dating back to the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD, amazing hydraulic structures that previously served the inhabitants of Hegra - an ancient city that became the center of caravan trade.
More than 50 inscriptions were found on the rocks of the complex, the appearance of which dates back to the Don-Babatean period. In 2008, the amazing Madain Salih complex was added to the UNESCO treasury.
Longmen Grottoes, China
"Dragon Gate" or Longmen Grottoes are located in one of the picturesque Chinese provinces, near the city of Luoyang. An amazing ensemble, consisting of beautiful temples and ancient caves, until 494 was the seat of the rulers of China, representing the Wei dynasty.
After the transfer of the residence to a new city, Buddhist monks settled among the caves and temples. The relief drawings and all kinds of sculptures that adorn the stone ensemble are the work of artisans who lived in the vicinity of the grotto.
2,300 amazing caves, about 80 mausoleums, more than 100,000 Buddhist paintings, a huge statue of the majestic Buddha guarding the entrance to the Fengxianse cave, more than 2,500 inscriptions adorning the rocks along the full-flowing Yishui River - these precious monuments of ancient Chinese culture, constituting a single complex, were introduced to the UNESCO heritage list. 
Bayon Temple, Cambodia
Among the picturesque nature of Angor Toma, the amazing Bayon temple complex, erected in the 7th century AD in honor of Jayavarman, has been preserved. The ancient architectural structure includes three levels of stone buildings surrounded by three monumental walls.
The temple complex is decorated with huge stone faces and drawings depicting the life and life of the Khmers.
In addition to the Bayon temple, on the territory of the Angkor region there are more than a thousand unique temples representing different eras and levels of civilization. Every year millions of curious tourists come here to see firsthand the unique monuments of ancient religious architecture.
Many of them have survived to this day in a dilapidated state, some have been restored, and some have remained a heap of stones, silently resting among the endless fields sown with rice.
Stonehand, UK
Oversized stone structure - Stonehend is located in the lush countryside of Salisbury Plain, in Wilshire County in Great Britain. 150 stones, placed in a certain sequence, are of great interest to scientists and ordinary tourists who come here to look at the amazing creation of man, created in 3000 BC.
Under the influence of time and natural phenomena, the unique monument of antiquity began to deteriorate, so now it is protected with special care. If half a century ago tourists could even climb huge structures, then since 1977 you can only look at them. To touch the stones, you need a special permit, issued throughout the year on the basis of a personal request.
Stonehend was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1986.
Lonely George, Ecuador
The only giant tortoise that represents this species of mammals lives in the National Park, located in Ecuador. The unique animal was found in 1927 on the island of Pinta, located in the northern part of the archipelago, and named after the famous actor George Gobel.
The world's most famous bachelor is in the prime of his life, according to scientists, he is now about 90 years old. It's time to have offspring. George has already found a female that has a genetic similarity with the ancestors of the "groom", so there is every reason to believe that the genus of giant tortoises will continue.
Summer Palace, China
Among the fabulously beautiful landscapes of the imperial garden in Beijing, the magnificent Summer Palace was built in 1750, which to this day keeps the memory of the royal people who lived within its walls.
In 1860, the unique architectural masterpiece was destroyed, and more than 20 years later it was restored.
In 1998, the Summer Palace was added to the list of the UNESO world treasury.
Statue of Liberty, America
The symbol of the United States of America, the Statue of Liberty, is located in one of the largest metropolitan areas of the country and the world - New York. It is a symbolic gift from the French to commemorate the centenary of the American Revolution.
"Lady Liberty" personifies the triumph of democracy, freedom of spirit and is a kind of reminder of the difficult period of the struggle of Americans for their rights.
1984 "Lady Liberty" was added to the list of UNESCO heritage.
Iguazu National Park, Argentina
On the territory of the picturesque province of Misiones, there is a majestic monument of Argentinean nature - Iguazu National Park, which in 1984 was recognized as a unique heritage by UNESCO.
In addition to the diversity of species of birds and the luxury of beautiful exotic vegetation, the park is notable for an incredible number of waterfalls concentrated near the Iguazu River. The number of cascading streams (from 150 to 250 waterfalls) depends on the water level in the river from which they originate.
The territory of the park is an oasis in the center of civilization, which has preserved a huge number of endangered representatives of flora and fauna. A piece of paradise on earth, filled with the outlandish aromas of flowers, the crystal sound of water and the cheerful singing of colorful birds, annually attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world, eager to see the riches of the Argentine region with their own eyes.
Kinderdijk, Netherlands
On the picturesque banks of the canals located near Rotterdam, a series of huge windmills, built several decades ago, rise majestically.
Over a thousand historical structures, named in Kinderdijk, after the village in which they are located, have added to the bottomless treasury of UNESCO.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
The adornment of the relief landscapes of the Los Glaciares National Park, located in the picturesque province of Santa Cruz, is a huge glacier with the sweet name Perito Moreno. In terms of size, it is second only to the glaciers of Antarctica and Greenland.
An amazing masterpiece created by nature has become not only an adornment of Argentine Patagonia, it has replenished the UNESCO world treasury. The talented creator gave the glacier an amazing architectural form, parts of which are modified under the influence of water flows.
The fact is that from time to time the glacier reaches Lake Argentino and spreads over to the opposite shore, thereby forming a massive dam and dividing the water surface into two parts. This leads to a significant increase in the water level in the southern part of the lake.
Cubic meters of icy liquid press against the walls of the glacier, breaking the constraining barrier. Such an action is a bewitching sight and sometimes happens once a year, and sometimes once every ten years.
Bahai Terraced Gardens, Israel
The picturesque town of Haifa is located in the north of Israel, the territory of which is dominated by the unique terraced gardens created many years ago.
The magnificent Tomb of Bob, the founder of the popular Baha'i religious movement, is buried in the luxury of amazing vegetation.
The majestic symbol of the interaction of nature and man in 2008 was included in the list of unique heritage by UNESCO.
Vatican
The Vatican, a tiny state located on the territory of Rome, is the world center of Christianity. Here is the papal throne and many unique architectural monuments, the main of which is the majestic St. Peter's Square, built in 1667 by the architect Bernini.
Two monumental symmetrical hemispheres connect near St. Peter's Basilica, forming a large-scale square where believers gather to hear and see the pontiff.
The inhabitants of the small state cherish the historical and cultural heritage of previous generations, of which the unique architecture of the country has become a part, and valuable works of art that are kept behind the walls of the sacred basilica.
In 1984, the Vatican was included in the UNESCO lists.
Petra, Israel
The ancient city of Petra is located in the Siq canyon leading to the Arava valley. The residential quarters carved into the sandstones rise at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level and are small caves connected by narrow paths.
Here, on the territory of modern Jordan, where Petra is located, ancient crypts, amazing temples, erected many centuries ago, have been preserved.
The amazing city of Petra is rightfully included in the UNESCO heritage list, in addition, since 2007 it has been called another "wonder of the world".
Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is a unique system of 3,000 separate coral reefs and over 900 scenic islands. It lies in the waters of the Coral Sea and attracts millions of divers every year, eager to see an amazing masterpiece created by tiny microorganisms.
With over 2,500 kilometers of fabulous flora and amazing underwater fauna, this is the largest coral reef on the planet that can be seen even from space.
In 1981, the Great Barrier Reef was added to the UNESCO treasury, and earlier it was awarded the status of a “wonder of the world”.
Belovezhskaya Pushcha, Belarus
Belovezhskaya Pushcha is one of the most famous nature reserves in Europe and the largest national park in Belarus. In 1993, it received the status of a biosphere reserve, and a year earlier it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
A picturesque nature conservation object is located on the territory of the Brest and Grodno regions, the Polish-Belarusian border passes through it.
In the picturesque landscapes of the amazing area, excellent conditions have been created for the habitation of many species of animals, including those listed in the “Red Book” of Belarus.
In the dense thickets of relict forests that once covered the entire territory of Europe, you can meet their powerful owner - bison, which attracts tourists from all over the world.
Rock carvings in Alta, Norway
Another cultural and historical heritage of UNESCO is rock carvings found in the north of Norway, in the city of Alta. Thanks to this find, it became known about the settlements of ancient people who hunted here during the Iron and Stone Ages. The rock art reflects the way of life of the people living in the coastal zones and on the mainland, their beliefs, traditions and rituals.
More than 5,000 unique images date back to 4200 - 500 BC and prove that the northern parts of the Earth were previously inhabited.
For the first time they started talking about amazing drawings in 1960, it was then that the first petroglyphs were found. In the course of further excavations, one of the largest archaeological sites of Jemmeluft was discovered, on the territory of which the Alta Museum was founded, open to tourists.
Urnes stave church, Norway
Among the grandeur of the silent mountains, on the picturesque Sognefjord, the outlines of the wooden church of Urnes, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, loom. An amazing masterpiece of wooden architecture was built three times in the same place. A church built in 1150 for one of the revered and very influential families has survived to this day.
The craftsmen who worked on the construction of the temple were able to convey the splendor of the architecture of that time and restore the decorative details present on the previously destroyed church.
The durable timber harvested for the construction of the temple in 1130 was able to withstand the influence of time and the effects of the elements. Therefore, the unique Church of Urnes still delights everyone who has at least once been lucky enough to visit the Royal Sognefjord.
Struve arc
A unique geodetic structure, called the Struve Arc, is a network with control points marked on the ground by means of stone cubes, iron crosses made in the rocks of depressions.
The Struve arc was used to establish the size of the Earth and determine its shape. Over 40 years of its existence, an amazing geodetic structure has undergone changes, and today it passes through the territory of Belarus, Norway, Lithuania, Moldova, Latvia, Ukraine, Finland, Russia, Sweden. The total length of the network, on which the triangulation points are located, is 2820 kilometers.
34 strongholds of the Arc, named after one of its creators Vasily Yakovlevich Struve, are now included in the UNESCO world treasury.
Kiev Pechersk Lavra, Ukraine
Kiev-Pechersk Lavra is a great Christian shrine located on the right bank of the mighty Dnieper. Founded in the 9th century, the monastery has undergone many changes throughout its existence. Today, a unique monument of ancient architecture reverently admires both true believers and ordinary tourists who come from all over the world to admire the golden-domed temple.
The Pechersk Lavra got its name thanks to the caves located on its territory, in which the first hermit monks lived.
From the day of its foundation, the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra became a spiritual and cultural stronghold of Kievan Rus, and its fame resounded far beyond the borders of the state.
Basilica of the Nativity and Pilgrim Trails, Palestine
The Church of the Nativity of Christ, erected in 339 AD, is located a few kilometers from Jerusalem. The place for the founding of the basilica was not chosen by chance, it is believed that it was here that Jesus Christ was born.
In the 6th century AD, the Church survived a fire, after which it was restored. Only the mosaic floors remain from the original structure.
In 2012, the Basilica of the Nativity of Christ, along with pilgrimage paths, bell towers, magnificent terraced gardens, was included in the list of UNESCO heritage sites.
Kakadu National Park, Australia
Kakadu National Park is a unique combination of lush plains and picturesque plateaus, marshland covered with emerald thickets of exotic plants, and rivers flowing through the park filled with life.
Hundreds of rare plant species and critically endangered animals can be seen in the park. An amazing natural complex is located in the north of Australia, where tribes of ancient settlers lived 40 thousand years ago. This is evidenced by the rock paintings found during archaeological excavations. The drawings depict the way of life of a prehistoric society, whose members hunted and were engaged in gathering.
Today, Kakadu Park is an archaeological and natural reserve, in 1981 included in the list of UNESCO sites.
Rainforests of the east coast of Australia
In eastern Australia, along the dizzying cliffs of the Great Dividing Range, there are mysterious rainforests that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
This unique area, which includes several luxurious parks and amazing reserves, is of immense importance to modern science. Indeed, on its territory there are geologically important objects, such as the craters of extinct volcanoes, and dense thickets of rain forests have become home to endemic species that represent the local fauna.
Wet Tropics of Queensland, Australia
450 kilometers of tropical rainforest lie along the northeastern coast of Australia. Dense, often impassable, thickets have become a habitat for funny marsupials, exotic songbirds and the rarest representatives of the richest Australian flora and no less diverse fauna.
In 1988, tropical rainforests were added to the treasury of the UNESCO world organization.
Fraser Island
Fraser Island, which is over 120 kilometers long, is the largest sandy island on the planet. Its relief surface is covered with moist tall forests, and the golden curves of the dunes are cut by blue-eyed "hanging" lakes filled with fresh water.
In 1992, this amazing natural complex was included in the UNESCO treasury.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
Shark Bay and the surrounding islands are a fabulously beautiful place known for phenomenal gifts from nature itself. Firstly, in the waters washing the coast, more than 10 thousand individuals of the dugong live (the largest population of these animals in the world).
Secondly, in the coastal waters you can see the huge plantations of algae, covering more than 480 thousand kilometers of the seabed.
Thirdly, the surroundings of the bay are decorated with rounded limestone formations - stromatolites. They owe their appearance to the colonies of algae, which are active under water.
Fourthly, several species of rare mammals live on the territory of the bay. In the aggregate, all factors have stopped the bay in the natural treasury, in 1991, replenished the lists of UNESCO.
Macquarie Island
In the endless subantarctic waters, between the two continents Antarctica and Australia, the tiny island of Macquarie is lost. A picturesque piece of land with a length of only 34 kilometers appeared after the collision of the Pacific lithospheric plate with the Indo-Austroalian plate.
As a result of a strong collision on the relief surface of papal, unique basalt rocks stored at a depth of over 6 kilometers in the Earth's mantle. In 1997, Macquarie Island was added to the richest UNESCO treasury.
Sydney Opera House, Australia
Above the azure waters of the Gulf of Sydney rises a snow-white structure, reminiscent of a wind-filled sailing ship, ready to set sail - this is the Sydney Opera House. Situated on solid foundations, the "shells" house a superbly decorated hall and a fine restaurant.
The building, erected in 1973, took its place among the UNESCO sites (in 2007) and became the most grandiose architectural structure of our time.
The talented architect Jorn Utson worked on the implementation of this amazing project. Having changed the traditions of urban planning developed over the years, he created a unique sculptural masterpiece that harmoniously complements the picturesque landscapes of the Pacific coast.
Convict settlements, Australia
Of the thousands of camps established by the British Empire in Austria (18-19 centuries), eleven, located on the islet of Norfolk, Tasmania, around Sydney, were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010.
The prisons were designed to hold hundreds of thousands of convicts by British justice. They were men, women, and even children.
Each correctional institution had its own specifics of work and methods of re-education of criminals.
This unique object is valuable as a reminder of the largest expansion of European states, realized through the deportation and placement of convicted criminals on the territory of colonies.
Leon Cathedral, Nicaragua
Lena Cathedral, erected at the beginning of the 19th century, personifies a transitional period in architecture, when the more progressive neoclassical trends at that time came to replace the baroque traditions. In the design of the exterior and interior, the features of eclecticism are clearly visible, with the refined luxury characteristic of the style and an abundance of decorative details that harmoniously combine into a single ensemble.
Magnificent stained-glass windows, rich ornaments, the use of works of pictorial art (paintings by Antonio Sarria, which depicts the difficult journey to Calvary) - all this gives the cathedral a special flavor, conveying the atmosphere of a difficult era.
The monumental structure of the temple was designed by the Guatemalan architect Diego José de Porres Esquivel.
Since 2011, León Cathedral has been part of the UNESCO Treasury.
Island city of Mozambique
The colorful town of Mozambique, founded in the 16th century, is located on the territory of the island of the same name, which once played an important role in the development of trade relations between Portugal and India.
The tiny town, surrounded by an endless smooth emerald water, framed by the edge of a magnificent sandy shore, is buried in the luxury of exotic plants, many of which are of particular value to science.
But not only the picturesque landscapes of the island are remarkable; the local architecture is of particular interest for tourists and researchers. The buildings, sustained in the same style, were erected from makuti stone and decorated taking into account the building traditions laid down in the 16th century.
In 1991, the amazing island city of Mazambique was added to the list of UNESCO sites.
Pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan
Teotiukan is a sacred city (previously considered the birthplace of the gods), was founded in the 1st century AD, and was completed only by the end of the 7th century. Its location (50 kilometers from Mexico City) and a high level of cultural development made it one of the most influential cities in Central America.
The remarkable architecture of Teotiukan, especially the large-scale monuments, temples and unique pyramids of the Moon and the Sun, designed with the principles of geometry in mind.
Since 1987, the pre-Hispanic city of Teotiucan has been adorned with a UNESCO treasury.
Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve
The eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is decorated with a picturesque biosphere reserve with the symbolic name of Sian Kaan. This is an amazing natural complex, created from tropical forests, mangroves, impenetrable swamps and coral reefs, which have become home to the inhabitants of the nearby water area.
The local flora is amazing and diverse and the fauna of the reserve is no less rich. More than 300 species of outlandish birds enliven with their singing dense thickets of forests, and hydrogeological conditions contribute to the predominance of terrestrial vertebrates, typical of this region.
The picturesque biosphere reserve Sian Kaan was added to the UNESCO treasury in 1987.
Historic city of Meknes, Morocco
Founded in the 9th century AD, the military settlement has blossomed over time and turned into the picturesque town of Maknes. During the reign of the Sultan Moulay Ismail Maknes became the capital of the Moroccan state, and the architecture of the city acquired a pronounced Spanish-Moorish flavor.
Majestic towers, powerful walls, huge gates have survived to this day, carefully preserving the memory of the past centuries of the prosperity of Meknes.
Since 1996, the historic city has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Bikini Atoll
Until 1946, Bikini Atoll could be called a paradise on earth. Beautiful nature, good-natured population, crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. But the beginning of the Cold War put an end to the happy existence of local residents. In 1946, they were relocated from their native island, and the picturesque landscapes and waters became a testing ground for American nuclear weapons.
For 12 years, over 60 nuclear explosions have thundered on the atoll, the first hydrogen bomb was tested here, thereby causing irreparable damage to the geology and nature of the island. The level of radiation in this place is such that nothing living can withstand such exposure.
Silent witnesses of the unfortunate events were the ships that sank during the tests, as well as a huge crater left after the explosion of a nuclear bomb.
Bikini Atoll, as a terrifying symbol of the nuclear age, was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 2010.
Lake Malawi National Park
The southern side of the picturesque Lake Malawi has turned into a unique national park, which is home to many interesting representatives of the underwater fauna.
The deep-water lake with the purest water has sheltered dozens of species of endemic fish, and its ichthyofauna is of great interest to scientists studying evolutionary processes on Earth.
The unique lake was added to the UNESCO treasury in 1984.
The old quarters and fortifications of the city of Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a walled city, in different periods, which was part of the Roman Empire, Prussia, Spain, France. Passing into possession from one state to another, the city became more and more fortified, eventually turning into the most protected fortress in Europe.
So it was until 1867, after the fortification was destroyed. Today, the dilapidated remains of a fortress and stone buildings remind of the former might of the architecture of the war era.
The ancient city with its quarters and fortifications was included in the lists of UNESCO sites in 1994.
Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit is a sandy peninsula 98 kilometers long. The width of the unique strip at different sites ranges from 400 meters to 4 kilometers.
The picturesque landscapes of the peninsula have been actively developed by humans since ancient times. Today, a struggle is being waged to preserve this unique natural masterpiece, exposed to the effects of the winds and the sea. In order to negate the negative impact of natural factors, work is underway to strengthen forest plantations and sand dunes.
In 2000, the Curonian Spit was added to the list of UNESCO heritage sites.
Los Catios National Park, Colombia
The Los Catios National Park is spread over 72 thousand hectares of picturesque Colombian land, which was added to the UNESCO treasury in 1994.
The relief landscapes of the picturesque land are covered with dense forests, humid plains, from time to time turning into low hills.
The territory of the park has become home to a huge number of amazing animals, including rare representatives of the local fauna.
Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya
The shallow lakes of the Great Rift Valley (Nakuru, Elementaita and Bogoria) are a unique nature reserve, on the territory of which an incredible variety of birds live, including over 12 endangered species. Birds can survive only within the Great Rift Valley, which is safe for them.
The emerald surface of the lakes is surrounded by magnificent landscapes covered with emerald thickets of forests that have become home to a huge number of animals (black rhino, funny Rothschild giraffe, powerful lion, populations of wild dogs and leopards).
Rift Valley is a place where pelican chicks are born and colorful flocks of beautiful flamingos walk in shallow water. This mesmerizing sight annually attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists eager to see with their own eyes the amazing beauty of the Great Rift Valley and the system of lakes, in 2011, included in the UNESCO list of sites.
In Russia, many priceless natural and cultural monuments are recognized as World Heritage Sites.
They are under the close scrutiny of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The most protected UNESCO sites in Russia are offered to your attention.
Moscow Kremlin and Red Square
These are the real symbols of Russia, which are known all over the world and are considered the main cultural attractions of the planet. The Moscow Kremlin and Red Square were included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1990.Almost the oldest monument in Russia with numerous buildings reflected the centuries-old history of the Russian people. On the territory of the Moscow Kremlin, unique examples of Russian foundry art are exhibited - "Tsar Cannon" weighing 40 tons and "Tsar Bell" weighing over 200 tons and a diameter of 6.6 m.
Lake Baikal
Baikal, a unique natural monument of Eastern Siberia, was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1996. The lake is the deepest in the world and contains 19% of the planet's fresh water reserves. When viewed from a height, the lake resembles a crescent, covers an area of over 3 million hectares and is fed by more than 300 rivers and streams. 
The water in the lake has an increased oxygen content, and due to its transparency, it is possible to discern a depth of up to 40 m. The age of the ancient lake is especially impressive - more than 25 million years, the complete isolation of which contributed to the development of a unique ecosystem in it.
Natural Park "Lena Pillars"
Included in the UNESCO National Heritage List in 2012, the Lena Pillars Park is the place where invaluable finds of the inhabitants of the Cambrian period were discovered. The park is located in the center of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) near the Lena River, occupying 1.27 million hectares. 
The park is inhabited by 12 species of fauna listed in the Red Book. Due to its antiquity, the park is of particular interest for geology: the natural monument is distinguished by its relief, dotted with caves, stone spiers, towers and niches.
The architectural ensemble of the Kizhi churchyard
The unique architectural complex of wooden architecture of the 18th-19th centuries was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1990 and is an ensemble of two wooden churches and a bell tower in Karelia. 
It houses the Kizhi State Historical and Architectural Museum with many objects of wooden religious architecture, including an eight-winged windmill of 1929 and the Transfiguration Church, built without a single nail.
Novgorod historical monuments
The architectural complexes of Veliky Novgorod and its environs were included in the UNESCO National Heritage List in 1992. The number of cultural sites includes such significant Orthodox buildings of antiquity as the monasteries of Znamensky, Antoniev, Yuryev, Zverin, as well as the churches of the Nativity of Christ, the Savior on Nereditsa, the Kremlin Novgorod Detinets. 
Wrangel Island Nature Reserve
The reserve was included in the UNESCO list in 2004. The unique protected area is known for its practically untouched natural ecosystem with the predominance of the largest population of polar bears, walruses, more than 50 species of birds. 
The territory of the reserve is located beyond the Arctic Circle, including Wrangel and Herald Island and the waters of the Chukchi and East Siberian Seas. Despite the harsh conditions of the Arctic waters, over 400 plant species can be seen here.
Curonian Spit
The famous sand spit stretches for 98 km with a maximum width of up to 3.8 km, located on the dividing line of the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. The natural landmark was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 2000 and is interesting for its unique anthropogenic landscape, which is represented by a variety of reliefs - from deserts to swampy tundras. 
The spit is of great importance for the migration of 10 to 20 million birds and serves as a haven for them during rest. Only here you can find dunes up to 68 m in height, the width of which sometimes reaches 1 km.
Novodevichy Convent in Moscow
Since 2004, the monastery has been included in the UNESCO list, which since 1524 was one of the defensive structures of Moscow. In 1926, a historical, household and historical museum was founded in the building of the monastery, and in 1980, the residence of Metropolitan Krutitsky and Kolomenskoye was located. In 1994, the convent was officially approved. There are over eight hundred monasteries in Russia. You can read about the most beautiful temples in our article. 
Komi forest
The Komi forest area is recognized as the most virgin forests in Europe with a total area of 32,600 sq. km, which belong to the territory of the Pechero-Ilychsky nature reserve and occupy part of the YugydVa national park. The number of volcanoes in Kamchatka is more than a thousandThe exact number of the peninsula's volcanoes is still unknown. The highest volcano is Klyuchevskaya Sopka with a height of 4835 m. The editors of the site also invite you to learn more about the most beautiful places in Russia.
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YUESKO is a specialized agency of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites includes the most valuable sites (both natural and man-made) in terms of their cultural, historical or ecological significance. Here are twenty unique in their beauty UNESCO sites located in Europe.
20 PHOTOS
1 Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
A forest reserve in Central Croatia, famous for its cascading lakes, waterfalls, caves and limestone gorges.
2 Red Square, Moscow, Russia. The most famous square in Russia, located east of the Kremlin - the official residence of the president. The Cathedral of St. Basil the Blessed and the State Historical Museum are located on Red Square.
3 Vlkolinec village, Slovakia. A well-preserved ethnographic village, which is included in the list of museums of folk architecture in Slovakia. The settlement reflects the traditional characteristics of a Central European village: log buildings, stables with hayloft and a wooden bell tower.
4 Rila Monastery, Bulgaria. The largest and most famous Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, founded in the 10th century and rebuilt in the mid-1800s.
5 Natural-historical complex of Mont Saint-Michel, France. A fortified insular Gothic abbey built between the 11th and 16th centuries in northwestern France.
6 Alcobasa Monastery, Portugal. Roman Catholic Church located north of Lisbon. It was built by the Portuguese king Alfonso I in the 12th century.
7 Budapest: Danube banks, Buda Castle and Andrássy Avenue. The central part of the Hungarian capital boasts such stunning architectural masterpieces as the Houses of Parliament, the Opera House, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the Market Hall.
8 Churches of Peace in Jawor and Swidnica, Poland. The largest wooden sacral buildings in Europe, built in the second half of the 17th century after the Peace of Westphalia, which ended the Thirty Years' War.
9. Headquarters in Urnes, Norway. The stave church, located in western Norway, is an excellent example of traditional Scandinavian architecture.
10. Bridge of the Giants, Ireland. A natural monument consisting of about 40,000 interconnected basalt columns formed as a result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
11. Aqueduct Pont du Gard, France. The tallest surviving ancient Roman aqueduct. Its length is 275 meters and its height is 47 meters.
12. Pilgrimage Church in Vis, Germany Bavarian rococo church located in a beautiful alpine valley southwest of Munich.
13. Fjords of Western Norway, Norway. Located in southwestern Norway, Geirangerfjord and Nordfjord are some of the longest and deepest fjords in the world.
14. Vatican, Italy. Center for Catholic Christianity, and the seat of the Pope. Also in the Vatican museums are kept many of the world's artistic masterpieces.
15. Millennial Benedictine monastery in Pannonhalm, Hungary. The monastic community and one of the oldest historical monuments in Hungary, was founded in 996.
16. Pirin National Park, Bulgaria. National park with an area of 403 sq. km, located on three zones of vegetation: mountain-forest, subalpine and alpine.
17. Grand Place, Brussels. 18. The area of the Old Bridge in the historic center of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The old bridge, built in the 16th century during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, is one of the most significant architectural monuments in the Balkans.
19. Ilulissat Glacial Fjord, Denmark. The fjord, located in western Greenland, 250 km north of the Arctic Circle. It includes the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, moving at a speed of 19 meters per day, one of the fastest glaciers in the world.
20. Palace of Catalan Music, Barcelona, Spain. A renowned concert hall, one of the finest examples of Catalan Art Nouveau. It is also the only naturally lit concert hall in Europe.