UNESCO decides on World Heritage Sites - endangered and protected
Vienna's historic center could be added to the UN's list of endangered sites, along with the earthquake-devastated Kathmandu valley. An array of other attractions could meanwhile join UNESCO's protected ranking.
A building controversy
The center of Vienna could end up on the UNESCO danger list, amid concerns about high-rise buildings. A large tower could be built on the edge of the area, which includes St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's ornate town hall, and the Hofgarten Imperial Palace (pictured).
Devastated, but rebuilding
The Kathmandu Valley could also be set to enter UNESCO's endangered designation. The valley area includes seven monument zones, three of which were badly damaged in the 2015 earthquake that killed more than 7,000 people. Buddhism and Hinduism fluorished in tandem in the valley over centuries, producing a powerful artistic fusion. Joining the list could mean extra funding for rebuilding efforts.
Fear of politicization
Israel has protested against the inclusion of Hebron's Old Town as a contender, saying it is insensitive to Jewish culture. The Tomb of the Patriarchs is said to be the resting place of Biblical figures such as Jacob, Isaac and Abraham - making it important in Christianity, Judaism and Islam. However, the Palestinian Authority was warned that it focused too much on Islamic culture.
A piece of Italy in Africa
From 1890 to 1941, Eritrea was an Italian colony. The regime of Mussolini was keen to establish an Italian stamp on the city of Asmara, which is Eritrea's capital today. A whole range of modernist buildings are included in the UNESCO application, including cinemas, banks, gas stations and this shopping center and apartment complex.
Tomb of Tudons
The Talayotic culture existed during the Iron Age, on the Balearic island of Menorca. The name is derived from the talaiots, abundant and emblematic structures that can be found on the island. It's thought the Talaiotic people were of Sardinian origin. A striking structure is the Naveta d'Es Tudons, a tomb that is one of the main tourist attractions of Menorca.
Oasis of Zoroastrianism
Yazd is the capital of Iran's Yazd province and has a unique form of Persian architecture. It's thought to be the world's oldest adobe city and it would be the first still-inhabited city in Iran to gain UNESCO-protected status. The city lies on a flat plain surrounded by mountains and was an important center for Zoroastrianism. Many there still belong to that faith.