Maratha Military Landscapes Recognized as World Heritage Site

UNESCO Designates Maratha Military Landscapes

On Friday, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially recognized the Maratha military landscapes as a World Heritage Site.

This designation includes a total of 12 significant forts: Salher, Shivneri, Lohagad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee.

While 11 of these forts are located in Maharashtra, Gingee is situated in Tamil Nadu.

Constructed, modified, or expanded by the Marathas from the late 17th century to the early 19th century, these forts were strategically positioned on coastal and mountainous terrains.

UNESCO highlighted that these structures formed a sophisticated defense network that bolstered Maratha military strength, safeguarded trade routes, and ensured territorial governance. This system was pivotal in the Marathas' emergence as a formidable political and military entity.

UNESCO, a United Nations agency, aims to foster global peace through collaboration in culture, education, arts, and sciences.

With this addition, India now boasts 44 sites listed as World Heritage properties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that “every Indian is elated” regarding the recognition of the Maratha military landscapes.

In 2024, the Moidams in Assam, which represent the burial mounds of the Ahom dynasty, will also be included in the World Heritage list.