Offbeat Traveler: New UNESCO World Heritage sites
The World Heritage Committee inscribed 26 new places to its well-regarded list of cultural and natural sites during its 36th session in late June and early July. Sites were drawn from five continents. Chad, Congo, Palau and Palestine are represented for the first time. Here's a look at notable additions, including the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon in Palau, Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth, Germany and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, revered by Christians as the site of Jesus' birth.
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Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, Palau( Jacki Claiborne )
The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon encompasses coral reefs, caves, 445 limestone islands and 52 marine lakes. This varied landscape has given rise to abundant marine diversity that includes many endemic species. Its stunning scenery is also an asset. In its report, IUCN notes that, "The maze of dome-shaped and green Rock Islands seemingly floating in the turquoise lagoon surrounded by coral reef is of exceptional aesthetic beauty."
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