Structured Lists Directory

Overview

Cultural Heritage Classifications

Cultural heritage classification, based on the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, is divided into three basic types: monuments, groups of buildings, and sites. Furthermore, in 1992, cultural landscapes were newly introduced, allowing landscapes formed through human-nature interaction to be evaluated as World Heritage. Additionally, modern classification categories such as historic towns and industrial heritage have also developed. These classifications serve as an important framework for protecting human cultural diversity and passing it on to future generations.

World Heritage cultural heritage UNESCO monuments buildings sites cultural landscapes historic towns industrial heritage
code slug name description categoryType
monuments monuments Monuments Architectural works, sculptures, and paintings with outstanding universal value from historical, artistic, or scientific perspectives. Basic Type
groups-of-buildings groups-of-buildings Groups of Buildings Groups of separate or connected buildings with value based on architectural style, homogeneity, or location within the landscape. Basic Type
sites sites Sites Areas containing human works and archaeological sites with historical, aesthetic, ethnological, or anthropological value. Basic Type
cultural-landscapes cultural-landscapes Cultural Landscapes Landscapes created by human interaction with nature, demonstrating the relationship between humans and the natural environment. Extended Type (Introduced 1992)
historic-towns historic-towns Historic Towns Cities where historic buildings accumulate, possessing historical and cultural value as an entire urban entity. Thematic Classification
industrial-heritage industrial-heritage Industrial Heritage Heritage that contributed to industrial modernization, including factories, mines, and railway facilities. Thematic Classification

The main classification system for cultural heritage in UNESCO World Heritage.