WHC Nomination Documentation File Name: 906.pdf UNESCO Region:
EUROPE AND THE NORTH AMERICA
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SITE NAME: The Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains DATE OF
INSCRIPTION: 4th December 1999 STATE PARTY: ROMANIA CRITERIA: C
(ii)(iii)(iv) DECISION OF THE WORLD HERITAGE COMMITTEE: Excerpt
from the Report of the 23rd Session of the World Heritage Committee
The Committee inscribed the site on the World Heritage List on the
basis of criteria (ii), (iii), and (iv): Criterion (ii): The Dacian
Fortresses represent the fusion of techniques and concepts of
military architecture from inside and outside the classical world
to create a unique style. Criterion (iii): The Geto-Dacian Kingdoms
of the late 1st millennium BC attained an exceptionally high
cultural and socio-economic level, and this is symbolized by this
group of fortresses. Criterion (iv): The hill-fort and its evolved
successor, the oppidum, were characteristic of the Late Iron Age in
Europe, and the Dacian Fortresses are outstanding examples of this
type of defended site. With reference to the three properties from
Romania inscribed on the World Heritage List, the Observer of
Germany stated that Sighisoara and the churches of Maramures relate
to the common heritage of the pluri-cultural society in
Transylvania which, unfortunately is now disappearing. Germany will
continue its support to encounter the problems caused by massive
emigration from this region. BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS The Dacian
fortresses, six Late Iron-Age defensive works, were created in the
1st centuries BC and AD as protection against Roman conquest. Their
extensive and well-preserved remains are located on a spectacular
natural site and present a dramatic picture of a vigorous and
innovative Iron Age civilisation. 1.b State, Province or Region:
Departments of Hunedoara and Alba 1.d Exact location: Fortress
Village Commune Department Coordinates Sarmizegetusa Grditea de
Munte Ortioara de Sus Hunedoara 2318'43"E, 4537'23"N Costeti-Cetaui
Coste Ortioara de Sus Hunedoara 2308'47"E, 4541'34"N Costeti
-Blidaru Costeti Ortioara Hunedoara 2309'47"E, 4540'00"N
