Correct Answer : Option (A) - 18 April
World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed annually on April 18. This year, the special day falls on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The observance of this day aims to raise awareness about the diversity and importance of the world’s cultural heritage, and the need to protect and preserve it for future generations.
Theme: "Disasters & Conflicts Through the Lens of the Venice Charter"
Since 1983, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) has set a theme around which events and activities are centered on World Heritage Day. For 2024, the theme is “Disasters & Conflicts Through the Lens of the Venice Charter”. This theme highlights the challenges and threats that heritage sites and monuments face, ranging from natural disasters to human-induced conflicts, and the importance of the principles and guidelines outlined in the Venice Charter for their protection and conservation.
History and Origins :
The idea of observing World Heritage Day was first proposed by ICOMOS in 1982, and the proposal was approved at UNESCO’s General Conference the following year. Since then, April 18 has been designated as the day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s cultural heritage.
The observance of World Heritage Day is a testament to the global recognition of the importance of preserving and protecting our shared cultural legacy. It serves as a reminder that the world’s heritage sites and monuments are not just local or national treasures, but rather, they are part of the common heritage of humanity.
Significance and Importance :
Our cultural heritage is a significant part of our identity as individuals, communities, and nations. It reflects our rich traditions, histories, and the creative expressions of our ancestors. Heritage sites and monuments are not just physical structures; they serve as portals to the past, allowing us to connect with our shared history and traditions.
However, these heritage sites and monuments are often vulnerable to various threats, including natural disasters, human-induced conflicts, and the pressures of urbanization and development. World Heritage Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the need to protect and preserve these invaluable assets for present and future generations.
