In a moment of great honour, Al-Maghtas, the revered Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, has clinched the prestigious title of Best UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 2025 GIST Acta Awards, celebrating excellence in archaeological and cultural tourism. The accolade was bestowed during a ceremony in Florence, Italy, on February 21, amidst the grand backdrop of the TourismA exhibition dedicated to cultural and archaeological tourism.
The Jordan Tourism Board announced that the award highlights sites that significantly contribute to heritage preservation and promote sustainable tourism. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, expressed that this recognition reinforces Jordan’s vital position as a hub of religious tourism, fostering peace and cultural diversity in the region. She portrayed Al-Maghtas as a treasure of global importance, inviting pilgrims to explore its rich historical significance.
The Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board, Abdulrazzaq Arabiyat, noted this achievement as a testament to Jordan’s steadfast dedication to religious tourism, emphasising Al-Maghtas’ crucial role as a pilgrimage site. He reiterated the board’s commitment to safeguarding the site’s historical essence while inviting visitors from around the globe.
Nestled on the eastern banks of the Jordan River, Al-Maghtas stands as a beacon for pilgrims and travellers alike, showcasing Jordan’s role as a premier destination for cultural and religious tourism. This accolade celebrates the nation’s successes in preserving its rich heritage, further establishing its significance within the global tourism narrative.
Al-Maghtas, the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, has been named the Best UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 2025 GIST Acta Awards for archaeological and cultural tourism. This recognition was celebrated at a ceremony in Florence, Italy. The award highlights Jordan’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and enhancing sustainable tourism, emphasised by key officials in the Jordan Tourism Board.
The recent recognition of Al-Maghtas as the Best UNESCO World Heritage Site at the GIST Acta Awards enhances Jordan’s prestigious standing in archaeological and cultural tourism. This accolade not only acknowledges the site’s historical importance but also reflects Jordan’s dedication to religious tourism and cultural diversity. Both Minister Lina Annab and Director General Abdulrazzaq Arabiyat emphasise the significance of welcoming visitors and pilgrims to explore this vital part of the Holy Land, ensuring its legacy endures.
Original Source: menafn.com