GK: Countries With The Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites – News18

Last Updated:February 24, 2025, 15:58 IST

Italy tops UNESCO’s World Heritage list with 60 sites, followed by China (59) and Germany (54), showcasing global cultural treasures.

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, has published a list of the countries with the most World Heritage Sites. A UNESCO World Heritage designation is more than just a title; it represents a commitment to preserving places of “Outstanding Universal Value.”

With 60 sites, Italy tops the list once again, showcasing its significant historical and cultural heritage. The historic city centres of Rome, Florence and Venice feature prominently, alongside lesser-known sites such as the Val d’Orcia and the rock-cut dwellings of Matera.

China follows closely with 59 sites, reflecting its rich architectural and cultural legacy. From the Great Wall to the breathtaking Wulingyuan mountains, China’s UNESCO sites highlight both architectural and environmental wonders.

Germany ranks third with 54 sites, offering a diverse array of natural and historical landmarks, from the stunning Wadden Sea to the mediaeval city of Bamberg.

Reflecting Europe’s vast cultural heritage, France and Spain complete the top five with 53 and 50 World Heritage Sites, respectively. France continues to attract millions of cultural tourists each year with iconic sites such as Mont-Saint-Michel and the historic vineyards of Burgundy. Meanwhile, Spain boasts landmarks like the Alhambra, the Sagrada Família and the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Among South Asian nations, India leads with 43 sites. The Ramappa Temple and Dholavira, two of India’s most recent additions, exemplify the country’s enduring commitment to heritage conservation.

Other nations that feature prominently on the list and have made significant contributions to global heritage include Mexico (35 sites), the United Kingdom (35 sites), Russia (32 sites) and Iran (28 sites).

These rankings reflect international efforts to safeguard and promote the world’s most treasured cultural sites. Below is a list of the top countries with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Top Countries for UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

• Italy: 60 sites
• China: 59 sites
• Germany: 54 sites
• France: 53 sites
• Spain: 50 sites
• India: 43 sites
• Mexico: 35 sites
• United Kingdom: 35 sites
• Russia: 32 sites
• Iran: 28 sites

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UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India

1. Agra Fort
2. Ajanta Caves
3. Ellora Caves
4. Taj Mahal
5. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
6. Sun Temple, Konârak
7. Kaziranga National Park
8. Keoladeo National Park
9. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
10. Churches and Convents of Goa
11. Fatehpur Sikri
12. Group of Monuments at Hampi
13. Khajuraho Group of Monuments
14. Elephanta Caves
15. Great Living Chola Temples
16. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal
17. Sundarbans National Park
18. Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
19. Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi
20. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi
21. Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi
22. Mountain Railways of India
23. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya
24. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
25. Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
26. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus)
27. Red Fort Complex
28. The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
29. Western Ghats
30. Hill Forts of Rajasthan
31. Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area
32. Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat
33. Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar
34. Khangchendzonga National Park
35. The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement
36. Historic City of Ahmedabad
37. Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai
38. Jaipur City, Rajasthan
39. Dholavira: a Harappan City
40. Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana
41. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
42. Shantiniketan
43. Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty

This list highlights India’s diverse and rich heritage, spanning ancient monuments, cultural landmarks and natural wonders, all of which contribute to the country’s historical and environmental legacy.