China Adds 1,336 Villages to State Protection List for Heritage Conservation

China is strengthening its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage by adding 1,336 traditional villages to the state protection list. This brings the total number of protected villages to 8,155, a testament to the ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and five other government departments.

The move is part of a broader initiative to safeguard China's rich history and cultural heritage. By 2020, the country had already successfully placed 539,000 historic buildings and traditional dwellings under protection, and developed 4,789 cultural heritage items at or above the provincial level.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development is encouraging local authorities to enhance and improve the archives of traditional villages, and to guide them in developing protection plans. These plans are crucial for strengthening the protection and sustainable utilization of these villages, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from them.

This expansion of the state protection list marks a significant step forward in China's journey to preserve its unique cultural heritage. It reflects a deep commitment to protecting traditional villages and the valuable history they represent.