Gwalior, Orchha in UNESCO world heritage cities list: MP Govt

Context:  The historical fort cities of Gwalior and Orchha in Madhya Pradesh have been included in the list of UNESCO's world heritage cities under its urban landscape city programme.

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), an agency of the United Nations, aims at promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture.
• Under the plan UNESCO will suggest best measures and resources for the development of these places under the Historic Urban Landscape recommendations.

About Gwalior

• Gwalior was established in 9th century and ruled by Gurjar Pratihar Rajvansh, Tomar, Baghel Kachvaho and Scindias.
• The memorabilia left by them is found in abundance in memorials, forts and palaces in the area.
• Gwalior is known for its palaces and temples, including the intricately carved Sas Bahu Ka Mandir temple.
• The Gwalior Fort occupies a sandstone plateau overlooking the city and is accessed via a winding road lined with sacred Jain statues.
• Within the forts high walls is the 15th-century Gujari Mahal Palace, now an archaeological museum.

Orchha

• Orchha is popular for its temples and palaces and was the capital of the Bundela kingdom in the 16th century.
• The famous spots in the town are Raj Mahal, Jehangir Mahal, Ramraja Temple, Rai Praveen Mahal, and Laxminarayan Mandir.

What will be done now?

• After inclusion in the World Heritage City list, chemical treatment of historic spots like Mansingh Palace, Gujri Mahal and Sahastrabahu Temple will be done so that art inscribed on them will become more visible.
• Guards will be posted at these places to welcome tourists as per the Indian traditions.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/dec/07/gwalior-orchha-in-unesco-world-heritage-cities-list-mp-govt-2232967.html