The Fanshan alum mine. [Photo by Chen Huibin/tidenews.com.cn]
Wenzhou has taken a significant step towards achieving World Cultural Heritage status, local media outlets reported.
The State Administration of Cultural Heritage recently approved three local sites for inclusion in China's Tentative List for World Cultural Heritage: the Fanshan alum mine, Shuomen ancient port, and Taishun covered bridges.
Dating back to the 15th century, Fanshan site is one of East Asia's oldest alum mining locations, showing a unique industrial landscape that integrates natural and human-made features. It has been recognized as a National Industrial Heritage site and a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award recipient.
An aerial view of the Shuomen ancient port. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]
The millennia-old Shuomen ancient port was once part of the Maritime Silk Road. It features well-preserved structures, including city gates, docks, and wooden walkways. Its rich archaeological findings underscore its pivotal role in China's maritime history and earned it a spot among China's "Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries of 2022".
Taishun covered bridges, a type of wooden arch bridges, demonstrate craftsmanship using mortise-and-tenon joints. The bridges also symbolize cultural sustainability, having been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Representative List.
Wenzhou is now working with experts and authorities to enhance heritage protection, public awareness, and infrastructure in order to advance toward UNESCO recognition.
Wenxing Bridge is a typical wooden arch bridge located in Taishun county of Wenzhou. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]
