Research of the Cultural Heritage of Humanity from the National Autonomous University of Honduras

Abstract

Cultural and natural heritage are part of the irreplaceable assets of each nation. The category of World Heritage is defined by the presence of remarkable attributes or qualities which have an “Outstanding Universal Value” and, therefore, deserve special protection to ensure their conservation for present and future generations. The Maya Site of Copan was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1980.The Main Group of the ancient city of Copan is located within the boundaries of the World Heritage Property. The establishment of a research institute of the UNAH, based in Copán Ruinas, constitutes the opportunity to develop an extraordinary laboratory in the National Monument of Copan, aiming to promote inter and multidisciplinary research at national and international levels. The Institute of Archaeoastronomy and Cultural and Natural Heritage (IARPACUNA) strengthens the positioning of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras as a leading institution in National and World Heritage conservation and research through the design and implementation of scientific projects with a holistic and innovative approach.