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Iran preparing files of eight villages for world heritage listing
Shalbafian stated that Iran has the opportunity to submit eight files to the UN tourism organization in 2024, ISNA wrote.
Following evaluations, several villages will be introduced as candidates, including Abyaneh (Isfahan), Kandolus (Mazandaran), Palangan (Kurdestan), Bisheh (Lorestan), Meymand (Kerman), Fahraj (Yazd), Asfak (South Khorasan), and Qaleh Bala (Semnan). Additionally, Soheili (Hormozgan Province - Qeshm) and Qasemabad (Gilan Province) are included in the supportive list.
Currently, assessments and field visits are being conducted for the nominated villages. Strategic committees for rural tourism development have been formed in provinces, and files are being compiled in collaboration with the cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts departments of provinces, he
said.
Shalbafian added that the initiative proposed by the UN tourism organization aims to capitalize on tourism industry capabilities to bring about rural development, increase welfare, and enhance community well-being.
Regarding the requirements for applicant villages, he mentioned population criteria, engagement in traditional activities such as agriculture, forestry, livestock farming, and fishing, preservation of cultural diversity and values, and the role of tourism as an economic driving force.
The evaluation of village files is based on nine indices of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including cultural and natural resources, promotion and preservation of cultural resources, economic sustainability, social stability, environmental sustainability, tourism potential and development, value chain integration, governance and tourism prioritization, infrastructure and communication, health, safety, and security.
Moreover, in addition to the evaluation criteria, programs must include a justification form explaining the village’s initiative to become a global village, he added.
The tourism deputy highlighted the benefits of selecting villages for global listing, such as receiving a diploma or plaque signed by the Secretary-General of the UN tourism organization.
Shalbafian recalled that since the initiation of this project in 2021, Iran has prioritized rural development based on the criteria announced by the UNWTO.
After evaluations, 130 villages were identified as most compatible. Following discussions in national rural tourism meetings and cooperation with executive agencies in the rural sector, files for a number of villages are submitted annually.