World Heritage Sites are a formal international heritage designation which is carried out through a process known as inscribing on the World Heritage List. The government carries out the inscribing/listing process on behalf of the UK. Inscribed in 1986, Ironbridge Gorge is known throughout the world as the symbol of the Industrial Revolution.
The Ironbridge Gorge contains all the elements of progress that contributed to the rapid development of this industrial region in the 18th century, from the mines themselves to the railway lines.
The blast furnace of Coalbrookdale was built in the 17th century and was bought by Abraham Darby I in 1708, were he discovered the use of coke.
The bridge at Ironbridge, the world's first bridge constructed of iron, had a considerable influence on developments in the fields of technology and architecture.
36
Years since it was inscribed
x4
World Heritage Site Criteria
11
Museums across the site
x5
Key settlements of interest
What makes the ironbridge gorge a world heritage site
It represents a masterpiece of human creative genius.
It's an outstanding example of a type of architecture or landscape.
It's an important representation of human values over a span of time.
It's associated with key events, traditions, beliefs or artistic achievements.
World heritage tangible themes
Intangible cultural heritage themes