Latest news with #UNESCOWorldHeritage


Daily Tribune
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Tribune
Man jumps into display of China's Terracotta Army: officials
• The man surnamed Sun was found to 'suffer from mental illness' • The 8,000-strong Terracotta Army is one of China's most important archaeological discoveries A domestic tourist climbed over a fence and jumped into a section of the world-famous display of China's Terracotta Army, damaging two ancient clay warriors, authorities said yesterday. The 30-year-old was visiting the museum housing the Terracotta Army in the city of Xi'an on Friday when he 'climbed over the guardrail and the protective net and jumped', public security officials said in a statement. The man surnamed Sun was found to 'suffer from mental illness' and the case is under investigation. He 'pushed and pulled' the clay warriors and two were 'damaged to varying degrees', the statement said. He was 'controlled' by security personnel. The pit he jumped into is up to 5.4 metres (18 feet) deep, according to the museum's website. Built around 209 BC to stand guard over the tomb of the first emperor, the 8,000-strong Terracotta Army is one of China's most important archaeological discoveries and considered a symbol of ancient Chinese artistic and military sophistication. A major tourist attraction in Xi'an, capital of the northern province of Shaanxi, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. A worker at the museum told AFP on Saturday that the display was open as usual.


New Indian Express
5 hours ago
- New Indian Express
Valley of Flowers National park in Uttarakhand reopens for tourist season 2025
DEHRADUN: The Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, has officially opened its gates to tourists on Sunday marking the beginning of its annual season. On the inaugural day, a total of 83 tourists made their way into the breathtaking floral expanse from Ghangharia, the final outpost before the valley, at seven in the morning. The park recorded 79 offline registrations and four online registrations, indicating a steady flow of early visitors eager to experience the Himalayan beauty. Speaking to TNIE, Chetna Kandpal, Forest Range Officer of the Uttarakhand Forest Department in Chamoli, emphasised the park's enduring popularity. "The Valley of Flowers remains a top preference for tourists visiting Uttarakhand. Thousands of visitors flock here annually. The valley is traditionally opened for tourist access on June 1st each year and then closed for the winter season on October 31." The valley, known for its breathtaking beauty, starts blooming with flowers after the snow melts, attracting a large number of tourists from across the globe. According to Kandpal, the valley's scenic beauty is a major draw for visitors, who flock to witness the vibrant flowers in bloom. "The Valley of Flowers is a major tourist attraction, and we're expecting a large influx of visitors this season. Repairs to the paths damaged by snowfall have been completed, and temporary bridges have been constructed over the seasonal streams," she said. Nestled high in the majestic Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand, India, stands as a breathtaking testament to nature's artistry. This renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its vibrant meadows of endemic alpine flowers, is situated at a staggering altitude of nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the world's most elevated floral sanctuaries. Located in the upper reaches of the Bhyundar Ganga, close to the pilgrimage town of Joshimath, the park forms a vital part of the expansive Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.


India Gazette
7 hours ago
- Health
- India Gazette
Uttarakhand: Valley of Flowers opens for tourists on June 1
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], June 1 (ANI): The world-renowned Valley of Flowers in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand welcomed tourists on Sunday. On its first day, the forest department staff welcomed visitors at the main gate, where 62 tourists had registered so far in June. This valley features over 300 species of Himalayan flowers. The Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its over 500 plant species. It is open for tourists every year from June to October. The valley is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, next to Nanda Devi National Park, and is known for its serene, picturesque beauty. The chief minister announced on Saturday that the Uttarakhand government is ready to take a step toward scientific, safe, and environmentally responsible medicine disposal in the state. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has started work towards implementing the guidelines issued by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in the state. A release said this decision is not just an administrative process but a transformative initiative to make Uttarakhand a model state of a 'green health system' across the country. Health Secretary and Commissioner of the FDA, Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, said that till now, there has been a lack of a clear and consistent system for the disposal of expired and unused medicines.'This challenge becomes more serious in an environmentally sensitive state like Uttarakhand. Now we are moving towards controlling it under a well-planned system,' Kumar said. He informed that in these guidelines, the process has been decided keeping in mind every stage of the life cycle of medicines from production to consumption and then proper disposal. Kumar further said that under the 'Healthy Citizen, Clean Uttarakhand' mission announced by the Chief Minister, this initiative will take the state towards a green and sustainable healthcare model. With this decision, the possibility of establishing the state as a leading state in the field of environmental responsibility and health security at the national and international levels has also become stronger. Only the active participation of all the parties involved in this entire process, policymakers, business organisations and common citizens, can make this mission successful. Uttarakhand is moving towards becoming an example in this direction. Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar informed that as per the plan of the Health Department, 'Drug Take-Back Sites' will be set up in a phased manner in urban, semi-urban and hilly areas of Uttarakhand. Here, common citizens will be able to deposit unused, expired or spoiled medicines lying in their homes. Medicines from these centres will be collected scientifically and disposed of in specially approved processing units. (ANI)


USA Today
12 hours ago
- Business
- USA Today
GoGordian Real Estate Offers Maisonettes and Villas for Sale in Paphos, Ideal for Summer Living and Retirement
GoGordian Real Estate has announced the availability of a new selection of maisonettes and villas for sale in Paphos, Cyprus, further expanding its portfolio of residential properties in the region. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich historical heritage, and consistently warm Mediterranean climate, Paphos continues to draw significant interest from both local and international buyers seeking properties suited for seasonal retreats or long-term living. The newly listed maisonettes and villas are situated in prime locations across Paphos, offering a balance of privacy, convenience, and proximity to essential amenities. Many of these homes are located near the sea, nature trails, and key urban centers, making them particularly attractive to those looking to settle in Cyprus or invest in holiday homes. The expansion aligns with increased demand in the local real estate market, especially among retirees from Europe and individuals seeking a second home in a sun-drenched location. Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long maintained a reputation as one of the island's most desirable residential hubs. Its combination of archaeological sites, scenic coastlines, and laid-back lifestyle continues to position the city as a preferred destination for foreign nationals interested in relocating to Cyprus. The properties now available through GoGordian Real Estate include both new developments and carefully maintained resale homes. Maisonettes offer a practical option for small families or couples, while the detached villas provide larger living spaces, often accompanied by gardens, private pools, or panoramic views of the coastline. These features appeal to individuals seeking both tranquility and year-round enjoyment in a region that offers over 300 days of sunshine annually. According to a spokesperson for GoGordian Real Estate, Paphos experiences a continued interest from prospective buyers in key European markets. 'There has been a clear and steady increase in inquiries from clients looking for well-positioned homes that can serve as permanent residences or seasonal getaways,' said the spokesperson. 'Paphos offers the right mix of infrastructure, natural beauty, and affordability, making it an ideal location for those planning for retirement or looking to enjoy summers in Cyprus.' The real estate firm has also noted a shift in buyer preferences following recent global lifestyle changes. Increasingly, individuals are seeking homes that accommodate flexible living arrangements, with a focus on outdoor space, home office setups, and proximity to local services. Properties in Paphos cater to these needs, offering adaptable layouts in quiet residential areas that remain well connected to healthcare, retail, and leisure facilities. GoGordian Real Estate's continued investment in the Paphos region also reflects a strategic response to the urban development plans and infrastructure upgrades currently underway in the area. Road improvements, enhanced public spaces, and initiatives promoting sustainable tourism have contributed to the city's long-term appeal. As a result, residential property values have remained stable, with signs of growth in high-demand locations, especially those near the coast or within heritage zones. The newly available properties are spread across several sought-after neighborhoods, including Agios Theodoros, Geroskipou, Pegeia, Neo Chorio and Latchi. Each area offers a distinct living experience, from vibrant seaside activity to quiet hillside retreats. Prospective buyers will find a diverse range of architectural styles, from contemporary minimalist villas to traditional Mediterranean-style homes, with options tailored to various lifestyle preferences and budgets. GoGordian Real Estate has reinforced its commitment to facilitating smooth and transparent transactions for buyers. Legal and administrative support is provided to assist foreign nationals throughout the purchasing process, ensuring that all regulatory and documentation requirements are met with precision. This level of guidance is particularly significant for retirees who are new to overseas property ownership. While demand for properties in Paphos remains strong, GoGordian Real Estate emphasizes the importance of early planning for interested buyers. The real estate market in Cyprus has become increasingly competitive, and high-quality properties in strategic locations are often sold quickly. The company encourages potential investors to reach out for updated listings and professional consultation to explore the available options. GoGordian Real Estate's broad property portfolio in Paphos responds to the growing demand for residential opportunities available across Cyprus. With an increasing number of people considering the island for seasonal living, semi-permanent relocation, or retirement, the focus remains on offering properties that meet practical, aesthetic, and long-term value expectations. As Cyprus continues to attract attention as a destination for quality living in the Mediterranean, GoGordian Real Estate remains positioned to play a central role in supporting that transition for homebuyers.


CairoScene
16 hours ago
- CairoScene
Discover Bahrain's Metropolis of Oyster Beds Along the Pearling Path
Discover a national treasure trove of oysters on this little-known walking path in Bahrain. Jun 01, 2025 Hidden in the heart of Muharraq, the former capital of Bahrain, lies a cultural treasure that harks back to the nation's pearling era. The site - known as 'Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy' - is an architectural and urban heritage that embodies the unique legacy of Bahrain's pearl producing oyster beds, a sprawling underwater metropolis where oysters build their homes atop delicate reefs in the north of the country. The pearling industry may have subsided in the 1930s, but its grand narrative remains the most significant source of Bahraini cultural identity. As Bahrain's second World Heritage Site after Bahrain Fort, the area is also replete with the residences of wealthy merchants, shops, storehouses and a mosque embedded in the urban fabric of Muharraq city. Together with the oyster beds, they reflect the final expression of a cultural tradition that dominated the Arabian Gulf from prehistory to the early 20th century. The best way to delve into Bahrain's pearl-studded past is by taking a stroll along the Pearling Path, a meandering 3.5 km visitor pathway that connects all of the site's 17 historical buildings and the three oyster beds in the northern waters of Bahrain. This segment of the coast, with the Nukhidhah House and the Bu Mahir fort, located at the southern tip of Muharraq Island, completes the Pearling Path, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2012. One especially prominent element is the Jalahma House, a magnificent example of how women influenced the original architecture of the city. Muharraq was transformed into a unique city of mostly women once the men boarded the dhows and set sail for the pearling season – and in turn, women began to take up many key occupations such as bread baking and fishing. The Jalahma House hosts an exhibition showcasing its prototypical design features, which convey the extraordinary role of women within the pearling society.