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The Palmeral of Elche (Spain)

Document type
Decision
Reference number
X.C.1
Date
Nov 27, 2000
Source
UNEP, InforMEA
Status
Active
Subject
Wild species & ecosystems
Treaty
Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Nov 23, 1972)
Meeting
24e session du Comité
Website
whc.unesco.org
Abstract

Property: The Palmeral of Elche

Id. N°: 930

State Party: Spain

Criteria: C (ii) (v)

The Committee decided to inscribe this property on the World Heritage List on the basis of criteria (ii) and (v):

Criterion (ii): The Palmeral (palm groves) of Elche represent a remarkable example of the transference of a characteristic landscape from one culture and continent to another, in this case from North Africa to Europe.

Criterion (v): The palm grove or garden is a typical feature of the North African landscape which was brought to Europe during the Islamic occupation of much of the Iberian peninsula and has survived to the present day. The ancient irrigation system, which is still functioning, is of special interest.

The Committee noted the change of name of the property from The Palmeral of Elche: A Cultural landscape Inherited from Al-Andalus to The Palmeral of Elche.