Maratha Forts: India’s Latest Addition to UNESCO World Heritage List

The Maratha Military Landscapes, a collection of 12 historically significant forts in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, have been added to UNESCO's World Heritage List during its 47th session in Paris. These forts, showcasing remarkable military engineering and strategic adaptation, highlight the legacy of the Maratha Empire (17th–19th centuries) led by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Recognized under cultural criteria, this marks India’s 44th UNESCO site. The addition underscores India's rich heritage and dedication to preserving its historical and cultural treasures.

In a landmark moment for India, the Maratha Military Landscapes, a collection of 12 historically significant forts, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition highlights the extraordinary military architecture and strategic brilliance of the Maratha Empire, which flourished between the 17th and 19th centuries. The decision was made during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, currently being held in Paris.

India’s Cultural and Historical Pride

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) shared the news on social media, expressing pride in the inclusion of these iconic forts. The Maratha Military Landscapes represent a remarkable blend of indigenous engineering and geographic adaptation. Spread across Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the selected forts include Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, and Gingee Fort.

“These forts showcase brilliant military engineering and strategic adaptation to diverse terrains such as the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the Konkan coast, the Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats,” stated the Ministry of Culture in a press release. The inclusion of these sites marks India’s 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site, further enriching the country’s cultural legacy.

A Testament to Maratha Ingenuity

The forts selected reflect various types of fortifications used by the Marathas. Among them, hill forts like Shivneri, Raigad, and Salher dominate the Sahyadri ranges, while coastal and island forts such as Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, and Khanderi demonstrate mastery of maritime defense. Gingee Fort, located in Tamil Nadu, stands as a prime example of a hill fort in the Eastern Ghats.

The origins of these military landscapes trace back to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who envisioned a robust defense network starting in the 17th century. This system evolved over time, extending into the Peshwa era until 1818. The forts showcase not only architectural prowess but also the Marathas’ ability to integrate natural terrains into their military strategies.

Cultural Significance and UNESCO Criteria

The Maratha Military Landscapes were nominated under UNESCO’s cultural criteria, specifically:

• Criterion (iii): Representing a unique testimony to a cultural tradition or civilization.

• Criterion (iv): Exemplifying an outstanding architectural or technological ensemble.

• Criterion (vi): Being associated with significant historical events, traditions, or cultural ideas.

This recognition underscores the historical and cultural significance of the Maratha forts, which bear witness to a pivotal era in Indian history.

India’s Growing World Heritage Portfolio

With the addition of the Maratha Military Landscapes, India now boasts 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including 34 cultural sites, 7 natural sites, and 1 mixed site. Maharashtra alone is home to six cultural World Heritage Sites, including the Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.

The Maratha forts were first included in UNESCO’s Tentative List in 2021, and their recognition this year highlights the meticulous efforts of Indian authorities in preserving and promoting the country’s heritage on the global stage.

About the World Heritage Committee

The World Heritage Committee, comprising representatives from 21 nations, oversees the implementation of the Convention for the Protection of the World’s Cultural and Natural Heritage. This year’s session, held from July 6 to 16 in Paris, has been instrumental in evaluating new nominations and assessing the conservation status of existing sites.

The recognition of the Maratha Military Landscapes is a testament to India’s rich history and cultural diversity, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Maratha Empire and its contributions to military architecture. As these forts join the ranks of globally celebrated heritage sites, they stand as a symbol of India’s illustrious past and its commitment to preserving it for future generations.