This Moravian Church Settlements is a unique example of the transnational scope and consistency of the international Moravian community, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overview

The Moravian Church Settlements comprise four congregational settlements in four countries: Christiansfeld (Denmark), Herrnhut (Germany), Gracehill (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) and Bethlehem (United States of America). These settlements reflect the ideals of the Moravian Church, featuring a unified urban design inspired by the concept of an "ideal city".

History

According to UNESCO, these settlements were established according to overarching planning principles that reflected the ideals of the Moravian Church. Each architectural ensemble bears witness to the Moravian Church's vision of a unified, coherent urban design, inspired by the concept of an “ideal city” developed by the Church during its formative phase in the 18th and beginning of the 19th centuries.

Architecture

The settlements feature distinctive Moravian buildings, including a particular type of Gemeinhaus (congregation building), church, choir houses, as well as a nearby God's Acre (cemetery). Each settlement has its own architectural character based on an original Moravian Church Civic Baroque style but adapted to local conditions.

Location

The Moravian Church Settlements are located in Bethlehem, United States of America, at coordinates 40.6191666667, -75.3808333334.

Religious Significance

The settlements were established by the Moravian Church as part of its global network, reflecting the community's values and ideals. Today, an active congregation continues to practice their faith in each settlement, maintaining a living Moravian heritage.

Notable Artworks and Features

Unfortunately, no specific details about notable artworks or features are available for this site.

Heritage Status

The Moravian Church Settlements were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015, recognized as a transnational serial property. They meet the criteria of (iii)(iv) for being an outstanding example of a tradition of building design and construction reflecting the cultural and civilisation values of its community.

Visiting Information

Unfortunately, no specific details about visiting information are available for this site.