UNESCO Inscribes Maratha Military Landscapes

On July 11, 2025, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee inscribed the "Maratha Military Landscapes" of India onto the World Heritage List during its 47th session in Paris. This recognition is significant, marking the preservation of a historical military system characterized by its exceptional fortifications, developed by the Maratha rulers between the 17th and 19th centuries.

Key Highlights:

• UNESCO Inscription: The Maratha Military Landscapes were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025.

• Committee Session: The decision was made during the ongoing 47th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) being held in Paris.

• Components of the Site: The site consists of 12 significant fortifications:

  • Salher Fort
  • Shivneri Fort
  • Lohgad
  • Khanderi Fort
  • Raigad
  • Rajgad
  • Pratapgad
  • Suvarnadurg
  • Panhala Fort
  • Vijay Durg
  • Sindhudurg in Maharashtra
  • Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.

• Cultural Significance: These components reflect the strategic military capabilities and architectural expertise of the Maratha Empire, emphasizing its role in India's historical landscape.

• Nomination Cycle: The nomination for the UNESCO listing was submitted for the 2024-25 cycle.

• Geographical Distribution: The forts are located across various geographical and physiographic regions of India, showcasing the diversity and strategic planning inherent in their construction.

The inclusion of the Maratha Military Landscapes on the UNESCO World Heritage List highlights the global recognition of India's rich cultural and military history, contributing to the ongoing efforts to preserve its heritage.