UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
It is part of the United Nations, whose aim is to maintain peace in the world.
UNESCO was founded in 1946, after the Second World War, to promote collaboration among nations through education, science and culture.
But what are its main actions?
It puts education at the heart of its missions by opening schools and libraries in developing countries and by translating thousands of books.
It also seeks to preserve world heritage sites that have “outstanding universal value”, recognised by the whole world.
Some are chosen because they are unique, like the historic center of Rome.
Others because they are masterpieces, like Chartres Cathedral.
Because they are spectacular, like the Great Temple of Abu Simbel, in Egypt.
Or because they are symbols of human history, like the famous Lascaux cave.
UNESCO also tries to protect natural sites like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or national parks.
It also protects cultural traditions, such as songs or dances.
Through its actions, UNESCO reminds us that our planet’s cultural diversity and natural beauty is the common heritage of humanity.