“UNESCO World Heritage Sites often celebrate natural and cultural landmarks' beauty, history, or ecological significance. Among these, a unique subset includes those that are partially or entirely underwater, showcasing the world's aquatic wonders. From vibrant coral reefs to mysterious sunken cities, these underwater or aquatic sites provide a glimpse into the submerged heritage of our planet. Here are some of the most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are either underwater or closely associated with aquatic environments:”
UNESCO World Heritage Sites on or in Water
| Site Name | Description | Picture |
|---|---|---|
| Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra – Western Stato da Mar | This site includes various fortresses and fortifications built by the Venetians across several countries, many of which are strategically located on or near bodies of water for defense purposes. |  |
| Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay | Located in France, this tidal island is surrounded by water at high tide, showcasing a unique interaction with the sea. |  |
| Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue | The Danube River is central to the city's layout, making parts of this heritage site directly on water. |  |
| Florence | The city's cultural heritage is closely tied to the Arno River, which runs through it. |  |
| Great Barrier Reef | This is perhaps the most famous underwater World Heritage Site, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, and known for its extensive coral ecosystems. |  |
| Banc d'Arguin National Park | This park in Mauritania features extensive tidal flats and shallow coastal areas, home to a rich marine life and bird populations. |  |
| Iguazú National Park | While not entirely “in water,” it includes the Iguazú Falls, which span across Argentina and Brazil, showcasing one of the largest waterfall systems in the world. |  |
| Sundarbans National Park | Although primarily a mangrove forest, much of it is submerged in water, making it a unique ecosystem in Bangladesh and India. |  |
| Wet Tropics of Queensland | Includes areas like the Daintree River, which are part of a broader aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem. |  |
| Tongariro National Park | Contains lakes like the Emerald Lakes, which are part of its scenic beauty and geological significance. |  |
| Okavango Delta | One of the world's largest inland deltas, where water courses through the region creating a unique aquatic environment. |  |
These sites highlight the diversity of UNESCO's recognition of water-related heritage, from natural underwater landscapes to cultural sites built on or designed around water bodies. Remember, this list is not exhaustive, as water plays a significant role in many more sites, but these are explicitly noted for their water-based features.