UNESCO team to visit Hampi on Oct. 24

A team of UNESCO experts will visit Hampi on October 24 to assess the conservation and management of historic monuments and compliance with World Heritage Site guidelines, Vijayanagara Deputy Commissioner Kavitha S. Mannikeri said on Wednesday.

Addressing a press conference at her office in Hosapete, she said that the team will arrive in Delhi on October 22 and visit Hampi on October 24. It will inspect Hampi and surrounding areas until October 27.

The team will include international heritage experts George Abungu and Ichita Shimoda, along with Additional Director-General for World Heritage Sites Janvi Sharma.

It will assess the conservation status of Hampi’s historic monuments, temples and ancient remains, she said.

The visit is significant for the preservation of Hampi, which reflects the rich history, architectural grandeur and cultural heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The inspection will focus on monument management, adherence to World Heritage Site guidelines and other aspects of heritage conservation.

The assessment is also expected to help improve the management of the heritage site and promote tourism without compromising Hampi’s historical significance. The objective is to preserve its ancient monuments for future generations, Ms. Mannikeri said.

The district administration has made the necessary preparations for the team’s visit.