Context:
UNESCO has asked Pakistan to reverse reconstruction work at two historical sites in Taxila, warning that the alterations compromise their authenticity and integrity. Failure to comply could lead to the sites being placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger or even delisted from the World Heritage List.
Explanation:
- UNESCO World Heritage Landmark: Taxila is an ancient city located in present-day Pakistan that was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.
- Gandhara Civilization Epicenter: The city flourished extensively as a major centre of the Gandhara Civilization, Buddhist learning, trade, and art between the 6th century BCE and the 5th century CE.
- Global Academic Hub: It featured one of the world’s earliest universities, drawing legendary historical thinkers like Chanakya and Panini to study and teach advanced sciences.
- Greco-Buddhist Artistic Fusion: Its unique geographical position at a crossroads of trade routes blended Greek, Persian, and Indian cultures into a distinct artistic style.
- International Legal Protection: Like all registered properties, the site is legally protected under the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized UN agency headquartered in Paris, France, dedicated to building peace and security worldwide by promoting international collaboration in education, arts, sciences, and culture.
Source: (The Indian Express, The Hindu, Live Mint)
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UNESCO World Heritage Convention and Taxila Conservation