The historic Moravian sites in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, are now inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, joining an esteemed group of historic locations in Denmark, Northern Ireland and Germany.

The Moravian Church Settlements of Bethlehem, along with Gracehill, Northern Ireland, and  and Herrnhut, Germany, now join Christiansfeld, Denmark, as a single World Heritage site representing the outstanding universal value of these historic settlements and the worldwide influence of the Moravian Church. The Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem become the 26^th World Heritage site in the United States.

© Durston Saylor

With its intact core of original buildings, The Moravian Church Settlements of Bethlehem are some of the most important structures and sites relating to the Moravians in the New World and are significant as an outstanding example of Moravian architecture and town planning. The settlement played a key role in both the international and American Moravian communities.

Located in the heart of downtown Bethlehem, the site spans 10 acres. It includes nine structures, four ruins and God’s Acre cemetery, all within the already designated Historic Moravian Bethlehem National Historic Landmark District — one of only eight Landmark Districts in Pennsylvania and one of just more than 200 in the nation.

© Craig Larimer

It stands as a reflection of and tribute to the resilience of a community built on universal human ideals essential and relevant to this day. The Moravian Church Settlements of Bethlehem preserves and advances the ageless values of education, equality, industry, integrity and spirituality that have been part of the community since 1741.

The inscription is expected to significantly boost cultural tourism to Bethlehem, attracting visitors from around the world eager to experience firsthand the rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant Moravian traditions still alive in the community. Local museums, historic sites and festivals are also likely to draw larger crowds, further strengthening Bethlehem’s position as a major cultural destination.

© Hotel Bethlehem

“Our community has long cherished and preserved Moravian Church Settlements — Bethlehem, and we are honored to receive this global recognition,” said Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds. “The designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site is a profound testament to the unmatched historical and cultural significance of Bethlehem and the enduring legacy of the Moravian Church.”

This is the first Transnational, Serial Nomination put forth by the United States, and is the result of a decades-long effort among Bethlehem Area Moravians, Central Moravian Church, City of Bethlehem, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, Moravian University, with the support of Northampton County and others.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to all those whose passion and unwavering support have been instrumental in our efforts and have played a crucial role in reaching this momentous milestone,” added Mayor Reynolds. “We also recognize the Office of International Affairs of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, and the World Heritage Committee for affirming the cultural significance of these sites.”