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UNESCO
World Heritage sites in Afghanistan |
The World Heritage Committee has inscribed the following properties on the World Heritage List:
- 2002 Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam
- 2003 The cultural landscape and archaeological remains of the Bamiyan Valley
(Shahrak District, Ghur)
The 65m-tall
Minaret of Jam is a graceful, soaring structure, dating back to the 12th
century. Covered in elaborate brickwork with a blue tile inscription at
the top, it is noteworthy for the quality of its architecture and decoration,
which represent the culmination of an architectural and artistic tradition
in this region. Its impact is heightened by its dramatic setting, a deep
river valley between towering mountains in the heart of the Ghur province.
The Convention states that a World Heritage Committee "will establish, keep up-to-date and publish" a World Heritage List of cultural and natural properties, submitted by the States Parties and considered to be of outstanding universal value.
One of the main responsibilities of this Committee is to provide technical co-operation under the World Heritage Fund for the safeguarding of World Heritage properties to States Parties whose resources are insufficient.
States Parties can request international assistance under the Fund for the preparation of tentative lists and nomination forms, expert missions, training of specialized staff, and supply of equipment when appropriate; they can also apply for long-term loans and, in special cases, non-repayable grants. Requests must concern work necessary for the preservation of cultural or natural sites included in the World Heritage List or assistance to national or regional training centres.
Emergency assistance is also available under the Fund in the case of properties severely damaged by specific natural or man-made disasters or threatened with imminent destruction.
source: www.unesco.org
