UNESCO Initiative
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“Every human culture has a sky, and strives to interpret what people perceive there. The understanding they develop inevitably comes to form a vital part of their fundamental knowledge concerning the cosmos and their place within it. Astronomy is not just a modern science but a fundamental reflection of how all people, past and present, understand themselves in relation to the Universe.” (Clive Ruggles, New Scientist, 17 Jan 2009) |
The Astronomy and World Heritage Initiative
This thematic initiative, adopted by UNESCO in 2005, aims to identify, safeguard and promote cultural properties connected with astronomy.
More broadly, the initiative aims to establish a link between science and culture on the basis of research aimed at acknowledging the cultural and scientific values of properties connected with astronomy. Its stated goals are:
- to offer a methodological framework for associated actions;
- to open the pathway for cooperation between States Parties and academic communities; and
- to share knowledge.
A longer-term aim is to facilitate State Parties in revising tentative lists and in preparing proposals for nomination to the World Heritage List. The ultimate aim is the successful inscription of new cultural properties whose outstanding significance to humankind derives in significant part from their connection with astronomy.
