Kathmandu Valley is a World Heritage Site (KVWHS) but do you know why? What reasons were given for protecting the temples, stupas, chowks and hitis of the Valley? Why shouldn't we move forward and transform the Monument Zones into modern cities? What good is it living in a frozen world of ancient buildings?
Much the same as when a student has to pass an exam to be admitted into college, when a place is nominated as a World Heritage Site it has to comply with one or more criteria, from a list of six, which means that it is worthy of the attention and support of the whole world. In the 1970s, when Kathmandu was crawling with hippies the heritage of the Valley underwent the 'exam process', and was accepted onto the World Heritage List in 1979. The Valley did pretty well, you could say it majored in three of the six subjects: criteria iii, iv and vi (visit http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/121 for details). It was recognised that the Valley bears a unique testimony to a cultural tradition which is living (criteria iii) and is an outstanding example of a group of buildings which illustrate a significant stage in human history (criteria iv). Finally, the Valley is full of examples of living traditions and events, with artistic works of outstanding universal value (criteria vi).
In practice this means that the seven monument zones embody the uniquely intricate and yet refined urban buildings that reflect the incredible mix of Hindu, Buddhist and Newari culture. Where in the world can you see such a happy mix of style, culture and religion reflected in architecture? Even in Nepal the Valley provides a remarkable example of mixed architectural styles and craftsmanship.
In the current climate it seems particularly important to think about the religious and social tolerance that must have existed to allow such a place to grow and flourish. Our Kathmandu Valley ancestors must have been so open to mixing up ideas and faiths that they were not threatened by outside influences. Instead they welcomed these ideas and expressed them through the buildings, art and crafts. The beauty is that this feeling exists in physical form and is lining our streets and squares to this day.
