× Information on this section of ECOLEX comes from the InforMEA Portal which compiled information from MEA Secretariats with the support of the European Union. The accuracy of the information displayed is the responsibility of the originating data source. In case of discrepancy the information as displayed on the respective MEA website prevails. Inscription: The Classical Gardens of Suzhou (China) Document type Decision Reference number VIII.C Date Dec 1, 1997 SourceUNEP, InforMEA Status Active Subject Wild species & ecosystems Treaty Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Nov 23, 1972) Meeting 21e session du Comité Website whc.unesco.org Abstract The Classical Gardens of Suzhou 813 China C(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(v) The Committee decided to inscribe this property on the basis of criteria (i), (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v), considering that the four classical gardens of Suzhou are masterpieces of Chinese landscape garden design in which art, nature, and ideas are integrated perfectly to create ensembles of great beauty and peaceful harmony, and four gardens are integral to the entire historic urban plan. The Committee, however, recommended that the State Party submit a nomination to extend the World Heritage protection to cover historic sectors of Suzhou and to take measures to maintain the integrity of this historic town, whose cultural value, marked by the linkage between its canal system and its gardens, extends beyond the four nominated gardens.