Coconut Club Vacations Takes a Closer Look at UNESCO and its First Sites

Coconut Club Vacations Takes a Closer Look at UNESCO and its First Sites Each year the UNESCO World Heritage Committee names the newest additions to the group of sites of natural or historic significance. Since the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was created in 1978, over 1000 sites have been named to the list including ancient Viking settlements and national park sites in the U.S. starting with just 12. Coconut Club Vacations invites you to learn more about 3 of these first sites.

Nahanni National Park – Canada

A beautiful area located along the South Nahanni River, it represents some of the most spectacular views in all of Canada. From waterfalls to canyons, caves to wild rivers, this national park reserve encompasses a total of over 11,600 square miles. First established as a national park preserve in 1976, it was the first to be inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1978. Thousands of visitors make the journey to this amazing site each year to hike, canoe, camp and wildlife watch.

Galapagos Islands – Ecuador

Located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are considered one of the most unique natural areas in the world. Named for its diversity and beauty, the Galapagos Islands are home to 11 endemic species, 10 of which are either threatened or extinct, 36 reptile species and almost 3,000 marine species.

Aachen Cathedral – Germany

A palatine chapel in Germany, this cathedral was built in the late 8^th century and early 9^th century under Emperor Charlemagne and is considered the inspiration for churches throughout the Eastern part of the Holy Roman Empire. Known for its style and its beauty, one of its most stunning features is the Byzantine style Cupola Mosaic.

Others which represent the first to make the list included:

Quito, Ecuador
Simien National Park, Ethiopia
Rock-Hewn Churches, Ethiopia
Krakow’s Historic Center, Poland
Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines, Poland
Island of Goree, Senegal
Mesa Verde National Park, U.S.
Yellowstone National Park, U.S.
L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Park, Canada

Whether you love history or art, culture or nature, you will find some of the best examples of all this and more in UNESCO World heritage Sties around the globe. Plan your next adventure.