When we embark on a culinary journey in the Mediterranean, we immerse ourselves entirely in the landscape, exploring the views on pleasure walks, rambling through rural vistas to meet local farmers and artisans, and soaking up the history and culture of old towns and charming villages. It is impossible to separate the places we visit and the people we meet from the traditions that have been passed down through the generations, and we find emblems of this heritage in the UNESCO sites we encounter on the way.
Southern Europe is full of famous sites you may have already visited or know about, such as the historic centre of Florence, the lagoons of Venice, and the Acropolis in Greece. But many items on the list might surprise you. There are four categories of World Heritage Sites, including cultural heritage, natural heritage, cultural landscape, and oral and intangible heritage. This means that the items included are much more than ancient artifacts.
While the Mediterranean is dotted with stunning sites that have been recognised by UNESCO, one country tops the list: Italy, with 58. You’ll find that we are also obsessed with what Italy has to offer. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites you will see on a tour with us in this list of some of our favourites.
Mediterranean diet
Are you surprised to find a diet on the UNESCO list? You will understand why this is probably our favourite item on the list. Added in 2013 to UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Mediterranean diet was recognised for its relation to the cultural identify of communities throughout the region, including the skills, rituals, and traditions related to growing, cooking, and eating food. You might say that each one of our trips is a celebration of just what UNESCO values: craftsmanship, hospitality, passed down techniques and respecting seasonal rhythms, and, above all, eating together!
Ortigia, historic centre of Syracuse
Cicero described it as “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of all,” and though it has been more than 2,000 years since he praised Syracuse, it has not lost its charm and beauty. Situated in the idyllic climate and rich culture of Sicily, Syracuse is notable for its remnants of ancient history, including a Roman amphitheatre, Greek theatre, the Fountain of Arethusa, and much more. The entirety of Ortigia is full of charm. Don’t miss the outdoor market where you can find fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables, and soak up all the atmosphere.
Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont
In the southern region of Piedmont, between the Po River and the Ligurian Apennines, lies a stretch of picturesque vineyards so remarkable that they have been listed by UNESCO. Extending over the hills of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato, the designation notes five distinct wine-growing area that have a long history of viticulture and wine-making. Pliny the Elder remarked on how favourable the wines from this region were back during the Roman Empire, and some of the words still used today when it comes to wine are of Etruscan and Celtic origin, remnants of when the groups met here for trade in the 5th century BC. Barolo, Asti Spumante, Barbaresco, Moscato Bianco, and Nebbiolo d’Alba are internationally renowned wines from this area that you should make a point of sampling during your visit.
Val d’Orcia
The landscape of Val d’Orcia in Tuscany looks like something out of a fairy tale. Its lush green hills are accentuated with olive, cypress, and chestnut groves and dotted with castles and medieval villages. One of these villages, Pienza, is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered an ideal example of a Renaissance city. Just outside Pienza are the famous vineyards of Montalcino and Montepulciano. Val d’Orcia has been singled out by UNESCO as an expression of the well-managed and aesthetic of the Renaissance’s agricultural landscapes. What they don’t tell you is that, once you’re here, you may never want to leave.
Mount Etna
As the highest island mountain in the Mediterranean, Mount Etna needs no introduction. As the most active volcano in the world, Mount Etna has a long recorded history, with documentation of eruptions that goes back 2,700 years, a fraction of the 500,000 years of disruptions that can be measured scientifically. Pay homage to this iconic volcano on your visit to Sicily by climbing some of the nature hikes in the surrounding park, observing the geological features, and gaining unbeatable views.
Modena
You might recognize the name Modena from some of its famous products, especially its traditional balsamic vinegar. A true gem of Emilia-Romagna, it is located in the food valley, and enchants visitors with its Romanesque art. In particular, UNESCO celebrates its 12th-century cathedral, with a soaring bell tower and grand piazza at the heart of the town. Our tour to Emilia is also award-winning, and along with taking in the gorgeous sites of Modena, visits a producer of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale and tries other local specialties, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Modena.
Assisi, the city of saints
Atop a hill in Umbria lies Assisi, the city of saints. The famous birthplace of St. Francis, the city was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000 specifically for its Franciscan sites, including the basilica and many medieval art masterpieces. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and explore the medieval houses and shops as you make your way to the basilica to admire the impressive frescoes on the walls and ceiling. In the lower sanctuary lies the tomb of St. Francis. Assisi truly is the jewel of Umbria and offers many historical, artistic, and gastronomic attractions that make a visit very much worth your while.
Amalfi Coast
In southwestern Italy lies the Amalfi Coast, a region of such astonishing beauty that it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Along with its physical grandeur and natural diversity, it has been settled by communities since the early Middle Ages. Medieval fishing villages cling to the coast, and its listing notes how inhabitants adapted themselves to the terrain by installing terraced vineyards and orchards on the lower slopes. The scenery on the Amalfi Coast is unparalleled, with lemon tree gardens, colourful houses, and views of the pure blue sea.
Pont du Gard, Provence
While you might have seen images of the Pont du Gard before, it is only when it is before you in real life that you can truly appreciate its scale and magnificence. Along with being an architectural wonder, the Roman aqueduct is the tallest and one of the best preserved. It was built in the 1st century to transport water more than 30 miles to the colony of Nemausus, known today as Nîmes, to fill their fountains, baths, and homes. Truly an ancient marvel, the site should not be missed on any trip to Provence.
The Maison Carrée,’ Nîmes
One of the newest additions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list is this Roman temple in the heart of Nîmes, which dates back to the 1st century. It is remarkable for how well-preserved it is, due to restoration efforts that have been ongoing for centuries. With looming Corinthian columns and a deep portico, its architecture has inspired other religious and governmental buildings around the world. The temple was dedicated to the heirs of Augustus who died young, and was a symbolic representation of the region’s allegiance to the Roman Empire.
The Mediterranean is full of timeless beauty and a rich history, with its many UNESCO World Heritage sites a testament to its ancient artifacts, vibrant heritage, incredible landscapes, and unique culture. These are all the things that we celebrate on our culinary journeys as we immerse ourselves in a destination and experience all the aspects that comprise it to the fullest. Where do you want to go and what do you want to see? Join us on one of our tours and get a taste of the world.
