Historic Recognition for Jamaica’s Archaeological Ensemble. Port Royal, a site of immense historical significance, has been officially inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage List. This prestigious recognition was granted during the ongoing meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Paris, France, with the site being acknowledged for its archaeological and cultural value.
Criteria for Inscription
The decision to inscribe ‘The Archaeological Ensemble of 17th Century Port Royal’ was made based on two specific criteria.
- Criterion 4: This criterion pertains to the site being an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble, or landscape that illustrates significant stages in human history.
- Criterion 6: This requires that the nominated site be directly or tangibly associated with events, living traditions, ideas, or beliefs, as well as artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
The evaluation team emphasized the integrity of Port Royal, noting that the archaeological ensemble includes both terrestrial and underwater evidence of the 17th-century town. The team highlighted that the site contains all necessary attributes to convey its Outstanding Universal Value, including its well-preserved urban plan and six fortifications that date back to the time of the catastrophic earthquake in 1692.
Ministerial Statement and National Pride
In a video statement following the announcement, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed Jamaica’s pride in the successful nomination. “We are proud that our nomination of this unique terrestrial and submerged site has been accepted. This inscription to the World Heritage List supports our national efforts to preserve this heritage for all humanity,” she stated.
The minister also extended her gratitude to all who supported Jamaica’s nomination, including the World Heritage Centre, the International Council of Monuments and Sites, and the governments of Mexico, Canada, the Netherlands, and Japan. She acknowledged the people of Port Royal, whose livelihoods are closely linked to the preservation and sustainable development of the site.
Port Royal’s Place in History
With this new recognition, Port Royal joins the Blue and John Crow Mountains as the second site from Jamaica on the World Heritage List. This inscription marks a significant step in the global acknowledgment of Jamaica’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Questions and Answers
Q: What criteria did Port Royal meet for UNESCO inscription?
A: Port Royal was inscribed based on Criterion 4, which highlights significant historical architectural examples, and Criterion 6, which relates to its association with cultural events and traditions.
Q: Why is Port Royal historically significant?
A: The site represents a 17th-century town with well-preserved archaeological evidence, including its urban plan and fortifications from the time of a major earthquake in 1692.
Q: Who expressed pride in this recognition?
A: Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed pride in Jamaica’s successful nomination of Port Royal to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Q: How does this inscription benefit the local community?
A: The inscription supports the preservation, promotion, and sustainable development of Port Royal, which is vital for the livelihoods of its residents.
