The recognition of the iconic Union Buildings by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as a World Heritage Site because of its cultural and historical significance, is set to boost its status as a tourist attraction.
Tshwane Deputy Mayor, Nasiphi Moya, said this following the recent inscription of the government’s headquarters as part of the heritage sites acknowledged by UNESCO.
Moya, who is also the Social Development MMC, said the awarding of the inscription took place at UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meeting held in New Delhi, India, from July 21 to 31, 2024. “I am pleased with the international recognition of the Union Buildings, which will strengthen its attraction,” she said.
Moya said sites recognised as culturally and historically significant were legally protected by international treaties, and deemed to hold importance for all of humanity, “The recognition of the Union Buildings falls within a group of inscribed sites termed ‘The Human Rights Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites’.”
Other South African sites recognised in this umbrella serial property package, along with the Union Buildings, include Constitutional Hill, Liliesleaf, Sharpeville, Walter Sisulu Square and several streets in Soweto.
Moya said: “The Union Buildings hold significant historical value for the City of Tshwane and South Africa.”
The Union Buildings, which is the seat of executive power, is visited by thousands of tourists daily for its beauty and importance.
Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, the building was initially meant to house the entire public service for the Union of South Africa. It was constructed in November 1910 with the official opening in 1913.
According to a research conducted by UK-based company, Swift Direct Blinds, it was named among the 20 most beautiful stately homes in the world. The research showed that since June 2021, online searches for the Union Buildings had increased by 2.88% and that many visitors who came to admire it posted glowing reviews on social media.
In a media statement, the Presidency said: “The Presidency calls on all South Africans, spheres of Government, management authorities and heritage stakeholders to work in a coordinated manner to ensure that these precious treasures of humanity are safeguarded and optimally deployed, to meaningfully contribute to sustainable development in communities and further entrench the values of human rights, freedom, peace and reconciliation.”
Pretoria News
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