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Bethlehem’s Moravian Church Settlements now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
July 26th, 2024 | In The News
July 26, 2024
Written by 69 News
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Early Friday morning at a meeting in New Delhi, India, the World Heritage Committee voted to inscribe Bethlehem’s Moravian Church Settlements as World Heritage Sites.
Representatives from Bethlehem attended the meeting, including Mayor Reynolds, who chairs the Bethlehem World Heritage Council and Commission.
The Bethlehem site joins an esteemed group of historic locations in Denmark, Northern Ireland, and Germany.
Bethlehem officials said in a press release that the historic Moravian Church Settlements of Bethlehem, Gracehill in Northern Ireland, and Herrnhut, Germany now join Christiansfeld, Denmark which was inscribed in 2015, as a single World Heritage site that represents the outstanding universal value of these historic settlements and the worldwide influence of the Moravian Church.
Located in the heart of downtown Bethlehem, the site spans 10 acres. It includes nine structures, four ruins, and God’s Acre cemetery, all within the already designated Historic Moravian Bethlehem National Historic Landmark District — one of only eight Landmark Districts in Pennsylvania and one of just over 200 in the nation.
The inscription is expected to significantly boost cultural tourism to Bethlehem, attracting visitors from around the world eager to experience firsthand the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant Moravian traditions still alive in the community. Local museums, historic sites, and festivals are also likely to draw larger crowds — further strengthening Bethlehem’s position as a major cultural destination.
“Our community has long cherished and preserved Moravian Church Settlements — Bethlehem, and we are honored to receive this global recognition,” declared Mayor Reynolds. “The designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a profound testament to the unmatched historical and cultural significance of Bethlehem and the enduring legacy of the Moravian Church.”
Officials say this is the first Transnational, Serial Nomination put forth by the United States and is the result of a decades-long effort among Bethlehem Area Moravians, Central Moravian Church, City of Bethlehem, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, Moravian University, and with the support of Northampton County and others.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to all those whose passion and unwavering support have been instrumental in our efforts and have played a crucial role in reaching this momentous milestone,” added Mayor Reynolds. “We also recognize the Office of International Affairs of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, and the World Heritage Committee for affirming the cultural significance of these sites.”
US officials are also applauding the selection. “The United States is deeply honored to be included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List with the listing of the Historic Moravian Bethlehem District where visitors from around the world are able to learn about the rich history of Moravian settlements, their cultural tradition and spiritual ideals,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “This designation is a recognition of the incredible work of the National Park Service and its local partners to preserve an important part of American – and world – history.”
