UNESCO World Heritage — Culture and Biodiversity
In 2019, Paraty and Ilha Grande became Brazil’s first mixed property on the World Heritage List, bringing together cultural values, biodiversity, and traditional communities.
- 2019
- Brazil’s first mixed World Heritage property
What happened
The property’s official name is “Paraty and Ilha Grande — Culture and Biodiversity.” Its inscription combines cultural and natural components in a serial property. The Historic Center and Morro da Vila Velha form the main cultural core, while protected Atlantic Forest and marine environments make up the natural components. The nomination also recognizes remains of the Gold Route and the presence of Indigenous, caiçara, and quilombola communities. Paraty received its certificate in 2022.
Why it matters
The recognition extends beyond the façades of the Historic Center. It highlights the relationship among built heritage, forest, sea, and traditional ways of life. Retaining the title requires coordinated management, environmental conservation, and participation by the communities that continue to create culture across the territory.
Related places
- Paraty Historic Center
- Morro da Vila Velha
- Gold Route
- Protected areas of Paraty and Ilha Grande
- Traditional community territories
Sources
- UNESCO — Paraty and Ilha Grande: Culture and Biodiversity
- IPHAN — World Heritage certificate
- Municipality of Paraty — Paraty World Heritage
Monthly update
September 10, 2026.
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