Top 10 countries with most UNESCO World Heritage Sites; check where India ranks
As of 2025, the world proudly hosts 1,248 such sites, each one a window into our shared legacy. Countries with the highest number of listings draw in not just tourists, but also scholars and conservationists who see these locations as living classrooms and sanctuaries. Italy remains at the top of the list, while India, rich in diversity and tradition, ranks sixth.
Unesco defines a World Heritage Site as a place of 'outstanding universal value,' representing either cultural, natural, or a mix of both types of significance. These sites range widely, from centuries-old architectural wonders and sacred sites to lush rainforests, coral reefs, and dramatic mountain landscapes. They highlight not only artistic and historical brilliance, but also the Earth's ecological and scientific richness.
The designation isn't just honorary, it comes with global recognition, conservation responsibility, and a push for mindful tourism. As of July 2025, these heritage sites span across 170 nations. During Unesco's 47th World Heritage Committee meeting in Paris, 26 new sites earned a spot on this prestigious list, continuing the tradition of protecting humanity's most treasured places.
Source: UNESCO
Italy tops the global list with the most Unesco World Heritage Sites, showcasing everything from ancient Roman landmarks and Renaissance art to medieval towns and stunning natural landscapes. Places like the Colosseum, Venice, and Sicily's historic ruins reflect its deep cultural and historical legacy across Europe and the Mediterranean.
China's Unesco World Heritage Sites showcase its rich imperial legacy, spiritual traditions, and stunning natural beauty. From the Great Wall and Forbidden City to Mount Tai and Suzhou's classical gardens, these landmarks capture over 5,000 years of history and artistic depth. More than just tourist spots, they embody national pride and cultural resilience. As conservation gains momentum, these sites connect China's ancient roots with its modern global presence.
Germany's Unesco sites range from towering Gothic cathedrals and fairytale castles to pioneering industrial landmarks. Icons like the Cologne Cathedral, Bauhaus architecture, and the Wadden Sea highlight the country's unique blend of medieval heritage, modern design, and environmental stewardship.
France, home to 53 Unesco World Heritage Sites, closely follows Germany on the list. Known for landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Mont-Saint-Michel, and the Palace of Versailles, the country reflects centuries of artistic influence, architectural brilliance, and cultural legacy that have left a lasting mark on the Western world.
Spain, home to 50 Unesco World Heritage Sites, is a mosaic of cultures shaped by Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences. From Granada's Alhambra to Barcelona's Sagrada Familia and the ancient streets of Toledo, each site tells a unique story of its rich and layered history.
India's Unesco World Heritage Sites reflect its deep-rooted civilisation and rich heritage, from ancient cave monasteries and Mughal-era forts to sacred temples and thriving wildlife reserves. Landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Hampi, Kaziranga, and Sanchi capture a vibrant blend of spirituality, architecture, and biodiversity across time.
Mexico, a Unesco member since 1984, is home to 36 World Heritage Sites—28 cultural, six natural, and two mixed. From the ancient city of Teotihuacan to the breathtaking Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, these sites reflect the country's deep-rooted history, vibrant ecosystems, and enduring cultural heritage.
The UK's Unesco heritage spans from ancient wonders to industrial-era marvels. Sites like Stonehenge, Hadrian's Wall, and Blenheim Palace reflect its royal legacy, scientific progress, and military past, while natural treasures like the Giant's Causeway reveal the Isles' unique blend of geology and legend.
Russia is home to 32 Unesco World Heritage Sites that showcase its deep cultural roots and stunning natural landscapes. From the elegant cityscape of Saint Petersburg to the historic Kremlin and Red Square in Moscow, and the vast, crystal-clear Lake Baikal—the world's deepest freshwater lake—each site tells a unique story of heritage and wonder.
Iran's rich heritage, rooted in ancient Persia, is reflected in Unesco sites like Persepolis, Golestan Palace, and the Bam Citadel. These landmarks highlight the country's mastery in engineering, artistic expression, and religious architecture, placing Iran at the heart of the Middle East's cultural and historical landscape.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
3 hours ago
- India.com
These 5 beautiful cities were swallowed by Sea, they submerged due to…, their names are...
These 5 beautiful cities were swallowed by Sea, they submerged due to…, their names are… Submerged Cities: As scientists are going deeper in the sea, more interesting revelations are happening. Ancient cities were found that were submerged in the sea. The actual reason behind the submerging of these cities is still a mystery that has to be solved. Do you know which ancient cities were submerged? These cities have now disappeared into the depths of history, whose stories are shocking. Here are top five ancient cities that got submerged with time. Baia Italian city Baia was once known for its hot springs and luxurious palaces. This was the favourite city of Roman kings. But Baia faced the nature's fury and sank under the sea due to continues volcanic activities. People perform scuba diving to see the remains of the city. Thonis-Heraklion The Egyptian city was famous for its trade and religious faith. It is a belief that It is said that Hercules set foot in Egypt from here. But with time the city was submerged in water due to change in direction of the river, which led to soil erosion. Derwent Once a beautiful city in England, now buried under water. Derwent was not submerged by a natural disaster, but it was deliberately submerged. In 1930s, when cities felt the increasing need for water, Derwent was sacrificed to build a reservoir. It is still visible, but only when the reservoir dries up. Villa Epecuen Villa Epecuen was famous far and wide for its clean water. Due to a massive flood in 1985, the entire city was submerged in 10 meters deep sea water. When the water receded after 25 years in 2009, its remains became visible again. Port Royal This Jamaican city, in the 17th century, was infamous for pirates and black businesses. In 1692, a massive earthquake jolted the city and a tsunami swallowed it in no time. This city is still hidden in the depths of the sea with its dark history.
News18
8 hours ago
- News18
GK: Top 10 Countries With Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, What Is India's Rank?
Last Updated: Italy is at the top of the UNESCO World Heritage List 2025 with 60 sites, while India has secured the sixth position with 44 such sites. Check the full list here. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are far more than ancient landmarks—they're vibrant symbols of human ingenuity, natural wonder, and cultural legacy. According to the organisation, world heritage sites are 'outstanding universal value to humanity". From the Pyramids of Egypt and Australia's Great Barrier Reef to Ecuador's Galápagos Islands, and the iconic Taj Mahal, there are many remarkable cultural and natural sites recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List. As of 2025, there are 1,248 such sites. 'The World Heritage List includes 1248 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value. These include 972 cultural, 235 natural and 41 mixed properties in 170 States Parties. As of October 2024, 196 States Parties have ratified the World Heritage Convention," states the official website. Rank 1 – Italy: 60 sites Italy leads the list with 60 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a rich blend of Roman ruins, Renaissance art, medieval cities, and natural beauty. Noteworthy sites include the Renaissance treasures in Florence and Venice, the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and Roman wonders such as the Colosseum. China holds the second position with 59 UNESCO-listed sites, featuring landmarks like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, sacred Mount Tai, and classical gardens of Suzhou. The Great Wall of China, spanning nearly 13,000 miles, is one of the world's most iconic structures. Germany ranks third with 54 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich cultural heritage. Notable sites include Gothic cathedrals, castles, and modern industrial locations. Highlights include the Wadden Sea, Cologne Cathedral, and Bauhaus buildings, reflecting a nation balancing medieval traditions and modernity. Rank 4 – France: 53 sites France holds the fourth position with 53 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a vast cultural and historical legacy. Key locations include Mont Saint-Michel with its medieval abbey, the Palace of Versailles, and Paris, home to iconic buildings such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. Rank 5 – Spain: 50 sites Spain ranks fifth with 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich cultural legacy. Important sites include the Alhambra in Granada, Gaudí's architectural masterpieces in Barcelona, and the Mezquita-Catedral of Córdoba. India, with 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spans diverse ecological, cultural, and linguistic zones. Key ancient sites include Ajanta Caves, Sun Temple, and Nalanda, while medieval sites feature Qutub Minar and Agra's Taj Mahal. Mexico and the UK both share the seventh spot with 35 World Heritage Sites each. Mexico's notable sites include the historic heart of Mexico City and the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza. The UK boasts famous locations such as Stonehenge, Bath with its Roman baths, and the Tower of London, representing British history and Georgian architecture. Rank 8 – Russia: 33 sites Russia, with 33 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, blends rich cultural history with natural beauty. Important sites include the architectural splendour of Saint Petersburg, the political and cultural significance of Moscow's Kremlin and Red Square, and the pristine Lake Baikal. Iran holds the ninth spot with 28 sites reflecting its ancient Persian roots. Key sites include Golestan Palace, Persepolis, and the Bam Citadel, showcasing advanced engineering, Persian art, and religious architecture. Rank 10 – Japan: 26 sites Japan, known as the 'Land of the Rising Sun,' ranks tenth with 26 sites, including 21 cultural locations such as temples and historic villages, and 5 natural sites like Yakushima Island. This ranking highlights Japan's rich heritage and commitment to preserving global cultural and ecological treasures. view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 30, 2025, 14:12 IST News education-career GK: Top 10 Countries With Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, What Is India's Rank? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
8 hours ago
- NDTV
Tsunami Safety Guide: Warning Signs, Survival Tips, Dos And Don'ts
Tsunami alerts were issued across the Pacific after a massive earthquake rocked Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The 8.8-magnitude undersea quake sent waves up to four metres high into Russia's eastern coastline, setting off evacuations and warnings across the region. In Japan, authorities issued advisories in over 130 coastal towns, urging nearly nine lakh people to move to higher ground. Tsunami watches were also issued in parts of the US, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii. The waves that eventually reached Japan were much smaller than anticipated, measuring around 1 to 1.3 feet, and were observed in areas such as Hokkaido and Ishinomaki. No major damage has been reported. What Is A Tsunami? Tsunami means "harbour wave" in Japanese. It is a series of large sea waves caused primarily by sudden movements of the ocean floor, usually due to undersea earthquakes. Other causes can include volcanic eruptions, landslides, or even meteorite impacts. Signs Of A Tsunami Strong or long earthquakes A sudden rise or fall in ocean water A loud roar from the sea Water quickly pulling away from the shore What To Do Before A Tsunami Know if you live in a tsunami risk zone Learn your local evacuation routes Choose a safe shelter on high ground or far inland Make an emergency communication plan with your family Sign up for local alerts and warnings Keep emergency supplies ready Practice evacuation drills regularly What To Do During A Tsunami Warning According to the UNESCO and the Red Cross, If there is an earthquake, drop, cover, and hold on When the shaking stops, go to high ground immediately Do not wait for an official alert if you see natural warning signs Stay away from beaches and rivers If you are in a boat, go to deep water or inland (follow local advice) What To Do After A Tsunami Listen to local officials before returning home Avoid flooded areas and damaged roads Do not touch electrical equipment in wet areas Watch out for falling debris and unstable buildings Stay away from dirty floodwater, it may be contaminated Use text or social media to check on loved ones Take photos of property damage for insurance What Not To Do After A Tsunami
