Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites is thrilled to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Bethlehem's Moravian settlements being inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. This remarkable achievement recognizes the Outstanding Universal Value of our historic district and places Bethlehem among the world's most treasured cultural sites.
A Year of Recognition
Over the past year, the World Heritage designation has brought increased visibility to Bethlehem's unique story. Visitors from around the globe have traveled to experience firsthand the remarkably preserved 18th-century Moravian settlement that pioneered innovative approaches to community planning, industry, and education.
The designation encompasses the historic Moravian Church Settlement, including the iconic 1741 Gemeinhaus, the Single Sisters' House, the Single Brothers' House, and the industrial waterworks along the Monocacy Creek—one of the earliest industrial complexes in North America.
Celebration Events
To mark this momentous anniversary, we have planned a series of special events throughout the month:
- Free guided tours of the World Heritage Site every Saturday
- Special exhibition: "From Bethlehem to the World" at the Kemerer Museum
- Lecture series featuring international preservation experts
- Community celebration with traditional Moravian music and food
Looking Forward
As we look to the future, our commitment to preserving and sharing this extraordinary heritage remains unwavering. The World Heritage designation brings both recognition and responsibility—a responsibility we embrace as stewards of this irreplaceable cultural treasure.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone and to experience the rich history that makes Bethlehem truly unique among American cities.