Italy Nominates Prehistoric Domus de Janas as UNESCO World Heritage Site

Paris: Italy is applying for the inclusion of the domus de janas, prehistoric rock-cut tombs typical of pre-Nuragic Sardinia, in the World Heritage List. This announcement was made by Italy’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Ambassador Liborio Stellino, during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, which is currently being held in Paris.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Committee, consisting of representatives from 21 states including Italy, is evaluating 30 new site nominations during this session. These include 24 cultural sites, 5 natural sites, and 1 mixed site. Ambassador Stellino emphasized the significance of incorporating states that are underrepresented on the Heritage List, ensuring a more inclusive and balanced global representation.

Stellino highlighted Italy’s recent initiatives, such as a £6 million contribution to ICCROM for capacity building in cultural heritage conservation in Africa, and the National School of Heritage and Cultural Activities’ collaboration with ICCROM on the ‘World Heritage in Africa: Processes and Strategies’ initiative. These efforts aim to support African professionals in the cultural heritage sector.

The domus de janas, which Italy is nominating, are monumental archaeological artifacts from Sardinia. They date back to the pre-Nuragic period, spanning from the Middle Neolithic to the Copper Age and the beginning of the Bronze Age, approximately between the fifth and the end of the third millennium B.C. Ambassador Stellino expressed Italy’s pride in promoting a site that underscores the relationship between culture, history, and territory, celebrating the harmony between humans and nature.