Top 6 things to know about Moravian Church Settlements, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
1. What is Included in the Moravian Church Settlements?
The Moravian Church Settlements are collectively recognized as a single World Heritage site. This designation encompasses the historic Moravian communities of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA; Christiansfeld, Denmark; Gracehill, Northern Ireland, UK; and Herrnhut, Saxony, Germany.
2. Who are the Moravians?
Moravians, also known as members of the Unitas Fratrum or Moravian Church, represent one of the oldest Protestant denominations, with origins dating back to 1457 in what is now the Czech Republic. Their storied history includes the pioneering efforts of missionaries who were sent out from Herrnhut in Saxony (present-day Germany) during the 1730s. These missionaries were instrumental in establishing church settlements and mission stations around the world.
The Moravians are renowned for their distinctive approach to planning, designing, and building settlements. These communities are characterized by identifiable qualities, such as the concept of a town center, the functionality and scale of buildings, and a cohesive architectural aesthetic. Moravian buildings are known for their distinctive architectural quality, reflecting the community’s ingenuity and creativity.
Throughout their history, the Moravians have made significant contributions to various fields, including education, town planning, music, and spirituality. They have a long-standing commitment to supporting the greater good of the global community, regardless of race, nationality, gender, language, or religion. This inclusive spirit is reflected in their ongoing efforts to preserve both the tangible and intangible values of their heritage sites.
Today, Moravian communities can be found across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Nepal.
3. What is World Heritage and the World Heritage List?
World Heritage was established in 1972 through an international treaty aimed at encouraging the identification, protection, and preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites around the world that are considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding these sites for future generations.
The United States was the first among 193 state parties to ratify the treaty, thereby contributing to the establishment of the World Heritage List which is governed by the actions of the World Heritage Committee. As of now, the World Heritage List includes more than 1,100 sites of significant cultural and natural importance globally, such as the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall of China, and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Among these sites, 26 are located in the United States. Notable examples include the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Parks, as well as the Statue of Liberty. Pennsylvania is home to two World Heritage sites: Independence Hall and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece, Fallingwater.
4. What is a World Heritage Site?
A World Heritage Site is a physical location — whether cultural, natural, or a combination of both — designated by the World Heritage Committee and included on the World Heritage List. To achieve this status, a site must demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value, meet stringent requirements for authenticity and integrity, and fulfill at least one of the ten criteria established by the committee.
The Moravian Church Settlements fall under the following criteria:
- Criterion III: Exhibiting a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or a civilization that is either living or has disappeared.
- Criterion IV: Serving as an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble, or landscape that illustrates significant stages in human history.
5. Why is World Heritage Recognition Important?
World Heritage recognition offers a unique opportunity to share the compelling story of the worldwide Moravian community with visitors. It serves as an educational tool for the local community, enhancing their understanding of their own history, the significance of a National Historic Landmark, and what it means to be a World Heritage site. This recognition instills a sense of pride among residents and fosters a deeper appreciation for their heritage.
The designation encourages a broader appreciation for history, culture, and the preservation of historic sites. It also strengthens recognition within the United States and elevates the site’s status on a global scale.
From an economic and cultural perspective, World Heritage recognition can provide significant benefits:
- Boosts Heritage Tourism: Increased visitation positively impacts local hotels, shops, restaurants, historic and cultural institutions, and contributes to local and state tax revenue.
- Enhances Business Travel: Attracts national and international vendors and clients, boosting the local economy.
- Marketing and Branding: Offers a valuable tool for the marketing and branding of the entire Lehigh Valley (LV) region.
- Employee Recruitment and Retention: Aids employers in the Lehigh Valley in attracting and retaining talented employees.
Moreover, this recognition helps fulfill the dream of the Moravian Heritage Network begun in 2002 to establish this transnational, serial nomination of the 18th Century Moravian Church settlements.
6. How is the Moravian Church Settlements (MCS) World Heritage Site Governed?
The governance of the Moravian Church Settlements World Heritage site is managed through an International Management Plan. This plan includes the formation of inter-governmental committees, a transnational coordination committee, and an international Moravian Church committee. These entities work together to ensure the cohesive management and preservation of the site across multiple countries.