In a proud moment for India, the Maratha Military Landscapes — a collection of 12 historic forts — have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris.
This prestigious recognition includes forts like Raigad, Shivneri, Pratapgad, Lohgad, Salher, and Gingee (Tamil Nadu), among others, which were constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries by the Maratha rulers. These forts are celebrated for their strategic planning, integration with natural landscapes, water management systems, and unique defense architecture across hills, coasts, and plains.
Built largely under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, these forts served as powerful symbols of resistance and administrative control during the height of the Maratha Empire.
UNESCO acknowledged their historical and architectural importance with a post on X (formerly Twitter), marking them as part of the 2024–25 World Heritage cycle.
This global recognition not only enhances India’s cultural prestige but also promotes heritage conservation, tourism, and pride in the country’s rich military and architectural legacy.
