ATHENS, July 26 (Xinhua) -- Greece on Sunday welcomed the inscription of Mount Olympus on the UNESCO World Heritage List, saying the move recognizes the mountain's outstanding cultural and natural significance.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the decision, adopted at the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea, as a major achievement for the country.
The inscription placed Mount Olympus among the world's mixed World Heritage sites, which are recognized for both their exceptional natural value and cultural significance. It brought the total number of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece to 21.
Located in northern Greece, Mount Olympus is the country's highest mountain and is known in Greek mythology as the home of the 12 Olympian gods.
According to a joint statement by Greek authorities, the mountain is home to nearly 2,000 plant taxa, representing more than 25 percent of Greece's flora, including dozens of endemic species found nowhere else in the world.
Greek authorities said the UNESCO recognition will help strengthen conservation efforts, promote sustainable tourism and further raise the international profile of one of Greece's most renowned natural landmarks.
With its highest peak reaching 2,918 meters above sea level, Mount Olympus was declared Greece's first national park in 1938. In 1981, UNESCO designated it a Biosphere Reserve. ■