bialowieza forest
category: natural
year: 1979
region: Europe and North America
latitude/longitude: 52.7275000000, 23.9811111111
unesco id: 33
world heritage site: 33
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Bialowieza Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Belarus and Poland, recognized in 1979 with expansions in 1992 and 2014, is one of Europe’s last primeval lowland forests, preserved for over 800 years. Home to the largest population of European bison and ancient oaks, its dense woodlands and wetlands showcase exceptional biodiversity and natural resilience. This cross-border site reflects a rare remnant of Europe’s wild past, blending ecological significance with centuries of human stewardship in a pristine wilderness.