Three remarkable heritage projects from Punjab and Haryana have garnered prestigious recognition at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, disclosed on Thursday.
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Rambagh Gate & Ramparts, Amritsar:
At the heart of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s 19th-century city wall in Amritsar lies the beautifully restored Rambagh Gate. Recently bestowed with the “Award of Excellence” from UNESCO, this three-story structure serves as a traditional market, government school, and municipal printing press. The restoration process embraced traditional building techniques and locally sourced materials, such as Nanakshahi bricks set in lime mortar. Beyond structural improvements, active public engagement has revitalized the community, transforming the historical property into a vibrant platform for cultural exchange.
Source: The Indian Express
Church of Epiphany, Gurgaon:
In Gurugram, the Church of Epiphany underwent a meticulous bottom-up restoration led by the Church Committee and Parish support, earning it the “Award of Merit” from UNESCO. The restoration preserved the authenticity and functionality of this historically significant asset. The project implemented a values-based heritage management system, employing non-invasive interventions to combat age and weathering. Local craftspeople were trained in traditional building materials and techniques, contributing to the preservation of this architectural gem in Gurugram’s historic area.
Source: The Indian Express
Pipal Haveli, Gurdaspur:
Nestled in the Nawan Pind Sardaran village of Gurdaspur district, Pipal Haveli, owned by the Sangha family, stands as a beacon of sustainable development and cultural preservation. Recognized for its sustainable development, the project earned acclaim for its deep roots in the region’s ecological and traditional building methods. Emphasizing locally sourced materials and architectural language, Pipal Haveli represents a contemporary, community-centered, multi-use educational building. The Sangha family’s dedication to restoring and conserving their ancestral property, coupled with the village’s recognition as the “Best Tourism Village” by Punjab’s Ministry of Tourism, adds to the project’s significance.
Source: India Today
UNESCO Insights and Recognition:
UNESCO’s Bangkok office shared insights into the winning projects, commending the resilient urban revitalization achieved at the Rambagh Gate and Ramparts. Furthermore, three projects, including Karnikara Mandapam at Kunnamangalam Bhagawati Temple in Kerala, India; Pipal Haveli in Punjab, India; and Sikami Chhen in Kathmandu, Nepal, received Special Recognition for Sustainable Development.
