The Minoan Palaces of Crete have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The decision of the international organization was unanimous.
A significant recognition of the Minoan civilization is the unanimous decision of the 47th UNESCO Conference in Paris to include the Minoan Palaces in Crete on the list of World Heritage Sites.
UNESCO, in its announcement of the historic decision, notes that the Minoan palaces highlight “the complexity of the structure of Minoan society and their timeless influence on the history of the Mediterranean.”
The inclusion was approved during the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee, held in Paris, in the presence of the Greek delegation, which actively participated in the process of supporting the candidacy file.
Six archaeological sites
In the decision of the international organization, which is under the auspices of the UN, the archaeological sites of Crete that enjoy international protection are now six: the Palace of Knossos, the Palace of Phaistos, the Palace of Zakros, the Palace of Malia, the Palace of Zominthos and the Palace of Kydonia (Chania).
These palaces, which date back to the 2nd millennium BC, reflect the pioneering architecture, social organization and religious worldview of the Minoans and their culture.
UNESCO’s decision was based on the cultural value, historical significance and uniqueness of these monuments. This recognition is considered important not only for the tourist promotion of Crete, but also for the long-term preservation and promotion of the archaeological sites.
The Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis, underlined the historic decision of UNESCO for the Minoan palaces:
“A multi-year and systematic effort has brought great results. With the formulation, documentation and acceptance by UNESCO of the candidacy for the Minoan Palatial Centers, Crete acquires, with “soft power”, an expanded role in universal cultural diplomacy. The registration of the 6 Minoan Palatial Centers on the UNESCO World Heritage List constitutes a development with undoubtedly multiplying benefits for our country.
The contribution of the Ministry of Culture and the Greek Permanent Representation to UNESCO was decisive. I would like to thank both the leadership of the Ministry and the Permanent Representation, as well as the executives of the services, as well as our partners in the Region and the Municipalities for their decisive contribution. Only together can we achieve the best result.
From today, when talking about the Minoan Palaces, the world will recognize that we are referring to world heritage monuments. And this makes us proud and optimistic about the future.”
Source: in.gr
