Maratha Military Landscapes

On 12th July 2025, at UNESCO’s 47th World Heritage Committee session in Paris, the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” were added to the World Heritage List, marking India’s 44th site.

Key Points

Global Recognition: The nomination, part of the 2024–25 cycle, was accepted after 18 months of evaluations, earning widespread support from 18 of 20 State Parties.
Historical Significance: The site comprises 12 forts exemplifying the Maratha Empire’s strategic military planning and architectural excellence (17th–19th centuries CE).
Geographical Diversity: Forts span hilltops (Shivneri, Raigad), forests (Pratapgad), plateaus (Panhala), coasts (Vijaydurg), and islands (Sindhudurg).
States Represented: Eleven forts are in Maharashtra, and Gingee Fort is in Tamil Nadu.
Custodianship: Eight forts are protected by the ASI, while four are overseen by Maharashtra’s Directorate of Archaeology and Museums.
UNESCO Criteria: Inscribed under criteria (iv) and (vi) for architectural/technological value and association with living traditions.
India’s Global Rank: India now ranks 6th globally and 2nd in Asia-Pacific for most World Heritage Sites.
Continued Efforts: India, a World Heritage Committee member (2021–2025), is actively promoting its heritage, with 62 sites on its Tentative List.