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UNESCO World Heritage Inscription of the Moravian Church Settlements
July 27th, 2024 | In The News
Written by The Valley Ledger
Northampton County is honored by the UNESCO World Heritage inscription of the Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem. The inscription marks a monumental achievement in recognition of our cultural legacy. This special accolade not only honors our community but also reaffirms our commitment to preserving and sharing our history with our global community.
The nomination of Bethlehem’s Historic Moravian Church for World Heritage Site status has spanned several years involving the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Bethlehem World Heritage Commission, including Northampton County Executive Lamont G. McClure. On February 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Interior submitted a multi-national nomination for Bethlehem’s Historic Moravian Church settlement to be designated a World Heritage Site, along with Gracehill, Northern Ireland/UK, and Herrnhut, Germany. It was the U.S. government’s first multi-country nomination.
“The County of Northampton has been committed to helping fulfill the World Heritage nomination process requirements. A UNESCO World Heritage inscription is a testament to the dedicated efforts of our community and partners,” said County Executive McClure. “I, along with County Council, have supported the Bethlehem World Heritage Commission’s acquisition of World Heritage Designation by providing $600,000 to show our commitment to its preservation for future generations.”
The nomination for the Moravian Church Settlements was considered for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, currently underway in New Delhi, India, from July 21 to July 31. The World Heritage Committee is composed of representatives from 21 nations elected from the UNESCO World Heritage Convention members.
There are only 25 World Heritage Sites in the United States and 1,154 around the world.
