'Maratha Military Landscapes' added to UNESCO World Heritage List

Posted 12 Jul 2025

2 min read

They are added because they show a living cultural tradition, have unique architecture and technology, and are strongly connected to important historical events and traditions.

They have become India’s 44th site in UNESCO World Heritage List.
India ranks 6th globally and 2nd in Asia Pacific Region for the most number of World Heritage Sites.
Archaeological Survey of India is the nodal agency of all the World Heritage related matters in the country.

About Maratha Military Landscape

Strategic Military Heritage (17th–19th Centuries CE): The network of twelve forts demonstrates the strategic military vision, innovation, regional adaptation and architectural ingenuity.
- These forts reflect understanding of geography and strategic defence planning.
Geographical Spread: Across the states of Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu,
- The selected sites, include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, along with Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.
Diverse and Strategic Locations: Located across a range of diverse terrains, from coastal outposts to hilltop strongholds.

Criteria for Selection of World Heritage Sites

To be included on the World Heritage List, sites must be of outstanding universal value and meet at least one out of ten selection criteria.
Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, can submit nomination proposals for sites on their territory to be considered for inclusion.
The nominated site is independently evaluated by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Final decision on its inscription is made by the World Heritage Committee (India is a member from 2021-25).