International Day for Monuments and Sites

Get more involved and connected with the idea of cultural heritage! Individual enthusiasts and organizations alike can come together in celebration of the International Day for Monuments and Sites. 

History of International Day for Monuments and Sites

The International Day for Monuments and Sites got started in 1982 when it was established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). Later, at the gathering of its 22nd general conference, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) approved the adoption of the International Day for Monuments and Sites, bringing more worldwide recognition to the day.

Each year, ICOMOS selects a unique theme that encourages individuals and organizations to consider various aspects of this day that recognizes the significance of monuments and sites. Past themes have included titles like Heritage and Climate (2022), Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures (2021), Heritage for Generations (2018) and Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism (2017).

How to Celebrate International Day for Monuments and Sites

Have loads of fun and learning something along the way by enjoying the celebration of International Day for Monuments and Sites with some of these ideas:

Visit Some Monuments and Sites

Of course one of the best things to do on International Day for Monuments and Sites would be to get out there and show some love by visiting one! These places and spaces offer all sorts of opportunities for learning and education, cultural insights and often just some fun to go along with it. Many people spend their lives walking or driving right by a statue or monument without actually stopping to look closely or learn about them. This would be the perfect day to take a tour of some local monuments and see what interesting information can be gleaned!

Take and Post Some Photos

Visiting those monuments didn’t really happen if it wasn’t posted on social media, right? Well, that’s obviously not true. But perhaps taking some selfies with a statue and posting it on social media would be a fun way to raise awareness for the International Day for Monuments and Sites. Invite a friend or even take a group of friends and make a day of it, learning about some local historical events and culture along the way.

Travel to Some Famous Monuments

The earth is a huge planet filled with amazing wonders and cultural places that offers a lifetime of discoveries to explore. Celebrate the International Day for Monuments and Sites by making a trip to discover one of these famous sites, and be sure to check out others nearby while there.

• Taj Mahal in India. This amazing white marble mausoleum was commissioned in 1631.
• Machu Picchu in Peru. Head down to South America to experience this fascinating Incan citadel from the 15th century.
• Colosseum in Rome, Italy. The largest ancient amphitheater ever built and it is almost 2000 years old.
• Great Wall of China. Head over to Beijing to take a look at this amazing fortification built as a protection by Imperial China.