Bethlehem received some major news this summer. This past July, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) classified our town as a world heritage site. We are so excited!
Wondering what a World Heritage Site is, and why UNESCO picked Bethlehem? We’ll explore all that and more.
What is a World Heritage Site?
World Heritage Sites are places recognized for their cultural, historical, or scientific importance. UNESCO manages them, and protects them legally under an international agreement. These sites are selected based on their exceptional cultural or natural value, contributing to humanity’s shared heritage.
There are 1,223 World Heritage Sites across the globe. Bethlehem joins famous monuments like the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal!
Why did UNESCO Choose Bethlehem as a World Heritage Site?
Bethlehem was chosen as a world heritage site due to its Moravian Church Settlements. Moravians settled in Bethlehem nearly 300 years ago. The town center features distinctive stone buildings and even the first municipal water system in America!
The Moravian Church Settlements are the 26th World Heritage Site in the United States. They join landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Independence Hall in PA. Natural sites like Yellowstone National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains are also World Heritage Sites!
The effort to make Bethlehem a World Heritage Site has been two decades in the making, with residents fighting for this historic honor since the early 2000’s. The church settlements include nine structures, four ruins, and a cemetery (God’s Acre). The structures include the 1751 Old Chapel, 1768 Widow’s House, 1772 Single Sisters’ House, and many more. The whole settlement spans over 10 acres!
What Does This Mean for Bethlehem?
City leaders in Bethlehem hope the designation of the Moravian Church Settlements as a World Heritage Site will attract more visitors to the small town in Pennsylvania. Some top World Heritage Sites have millions of visitors every year!
Jean Manes, the acting United States representative to UNESCO, said, “These settlements in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, represent the very best of the United States,” and officials in Bethlehem agree. City officials plan to launch a campaign soon to inform tourists about this designation. When you stop in to see these amazing settlements, make sure you book your stay here with us at the Sayre Mansion!
Book Your Stay in Bethlehem at the Sayre Mansion!
Wow, with so much history around, Bethlehem is a wonderful place to spend some time on vacation. You never know what you’ll learn!
When choosing accommodations for your stay in Bethlehem, the Sayre Mansion is a top choice for travelers. We offer exciting specials like the Paranormal Experience, Drive/Bike/Hike the Lehigh Valley, Ladies’ Night Packages, and so much more. There really is something for everyone here!
Whether you’re looking to stay in a classic room, a larger suite, or need to be sure your stay is pet-friendly, we’ve covered all the bases here at Sayre Mansion. When you stay with us, your time in Bethlehem will be one of a kind. Browse our available rooms now and book your stay in Bethlehem directly at the Sayre Mansion!