UNESCO Adds Five Jabal Amel Castles to World Heritage List

The World Heritage Committee, during its 48th session held in Busan, unanimously approved the inclusion of the Jabal Amel castles—Shaqif Castle, Tebnine Castle, Shaqra Castle, Deir Kifa Castle, and Shamma Castle—on both the World Heritage List and the World Heritage in Danger List, following a nomination submitted by Lebanon.

This decision represents international recognition of the exceptional global value of these sites and reinforces the international community's commitment to their protection and preservation amid the challenges they face.

The achievement goes beyond the mere addition of a new archaeological site; it reflects the success of Lebanese cultural diplomacy and demonstrates Lebanon's ability, despite difficult circumstances, to mobilize international support for safeguarding its heritage, preserving its cultural identity, and enhancing its presence and credibility within UNESCO.

This accomplishment resulted from a collective effort led by the Ministry of Culture, the Directorate General of Antiquities, and Lebanon’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, headed by Ambassador Hind Darwish, in close coordination with the World Heritage Centre and with the backing of member states of the World Heritage Committee.

While this international recognition marks a pivotal milestone, it primarily signifies the beginning of renewed responsibility. The real work starts now: protecting this exceptional heritage, ensuring the means for its conservation, and creating conditions to transmit it to future generations. Lebanon commits to fulfilling this responsibility with the support of the international community to preserve this shared human legacy.