site.btaGreece Nominates Mount Olympus for UNESCO World Heritage List

Greece's Mount Olympus will strive to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a mixed cultural and natural site, the online edition of the Kathimerini newspaper reported.

The nomination will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and, according to ancient Greek mythology, is the home of Zeus and the other Olympian gods, the publication notes. 

The proposal is based on a combination of mythological and cultural significance, archaeological and religious sites, natural beauty and landmarks, as well as rich biodiversity.

Mount Olympus's inclusion on the list is not yet certain, as the committee is expected to request additional information from Greece, the report further notes. 

Local government officials in towns and villages that serve as starting points for tourists and hikers hope that the potential recognition as a World Heritage Site will contribute to better protection of the mountain and help manage the growing number of visitors.