A World Heritage Site is a place that is listed by the UNESCO as of special cultural or physical significance. While each World Heritage Site remains part of the legal territory of the state where in the site is located, UNESCO considers it in the interest of the international community to preserve each site. There are three world heritage sites in Bangladesh: the Shat Gombuj Mosque, the Somapura Vihara and the Sundarbans.
The Shat Gombuj Mosque is a 15th century Islamic edifice. It is situated in the suburbs of Bagerhat, some 175 km southwest of Dhaka. The Mosque is unique in that it has sixty pillars, which support seventy-seven exquisitely curved domes. The mausoleum of the city’s founder, Khan Jahan Ali can be found nearby
The Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur, 200 kilometres northwest of Dhaka, was founded in the 7th century. It is the largest single Buddhist monastery in the Indian subcontinent and is also known as the Somapura Mahavira. It was a renowned intellectual centre from the 7th century until the 17th century. Its layout is perfectly adapted to its religious function. This monastery city represents a unique artistic achievement which has influenced Buddhist architecture as far away as Cambodia.
The Sundarbans are one of the largest remaining areas of mangroves in the world. It also has exceptional biodiversity, notably about 400 Bengal tigers. Its ever changing landscape is shaped by tidal shifts, rivers and creeks. The Sundarbans are badged as “The largest mangrove belt in the world, the habitat of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger.”
We are proud that we have three World Heritage Sites though our country is a small one. With the declaration of these as World Heritage Sites, it is hoped that this beautiful architectural monument and forest will be preserved from further decay.
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