A new video series promoting Northern Ireland’s five UNESCO designations was unveiled at a Stormont event this week.

The “Our Special Places” films feature the Giant’s Causeway World Heritage Site, the Moravian Church Settlements at Gracehill, Belfast’s City of Music, the cross-border Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, and the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark.

Funding came from the UK National Commission for UNESCO’s Local to Global 2.0 Community Grants Scheme, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Northern Ireland’s UNESCO network received a £10,000 grant as part of a programme that supported six collaborative projects across the UK.

James Bridge, Chief Executive of the UK National Commission for UNESCO, described the project as a celebration of the sites working together to share their unique stories and demonstrate how UNESCO recognition benefits local communities. He noted the launch coincides with UNESCO’s 80th anniversary year.

Gracehill, a County Antrim village, became part of the Moravian Church Settlements World Heritage property in 2024, drawing fresh international attention to the historic settlement.

A panel discussion involving representatives from each designation explored their role in protecting heritage, supporting sustainable tourism, and raising Northern Ireland’s global profile. Gráinne O’Connor, manager of the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, said the cross-border cooperation between counties Fermanagh and Cavan brings communities together to celebrate shared heritage, and the video series highlights the international significance of the landscapes.

Organisers called for continued political and financial support for the region’s UNESCO network to safeguard and strengthen the designations.