Gracehill welcomes UK heritage delegates as historic Moravian village takes centre stage
Thursday 08 October 2026
Gracehill welcomed heritage professionals from across the UK this week, giving visitors an opportunity to explore the historic Moravian village near Ballymena and learn how its internationally recognised heritage is being protected for future generations.
The visit formed part of the 2026 World Heritage UK Conference, held in Portrush on 5 and 6 October, and brought delegates to one of Northern Ireland’s most distinctive historic settlements.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024, Gracehill is recognised internationally for its remarkably preserved Moravian architecture, village layout and religious heritage.
Showcasing Gracehill to the world
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, welcomes delegates from World Heritage UK to the UNESCO site at Gracehill
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, hosted the delegates on the final day of the conference, welcoming representatives from the wider World Heritage community to the village.
Visitors were introduced to Gracehill’s central square, historic listed buildings, Moravian church and its peaceful burial ground, known as God’s Acre.
The visit also highlighted the work of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, local residents and heritage partners in conserving the village and ensuring its unique character is maintained.
Mayor Gordon said:
“I was delighted to welcome colleagues from across the World Heritage family to Mid and East Antrim following the annual conference.
“The visit by delegates gave us an opportunity to showcase the charming village of Gracehill, its central square and historic listed buildings, including the Moravian church and its peaceful burial ground known as God’s Acre.
“It also allows us to continue to celebrate both the efforts of the local community in achieving World Heritage recognition and the shared values that connect World Heritage Sites across the globe.”
International recognition for a unique village
Gracehill’s World Heritage designation in 2024 placed the village within an internationally recognised network of historic Moravian settlements, acknowledging its architectural significance and the traditions that have shaped the community over generations.
The recognition was a major achievement for the village and the local people whose efforts helped secure its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Hosting delegates from across the heritage sector provided an opportunity to share that achievement while exchanging knowledge about the challenges of protecting historic places and keeping them relevant to modern communities.
World Heritage conference brings experts together
The 2026 World Heritage UK Conference brought professionals and stakeholders together in Portrush to explore the theme of Connections through World Heritage.
Speakers included Hilary McGrady, Director-General of the National Trust; Michael McDonagh, Head of National Monuments for the Republic of Ireland; and Kaspar Schurch, Director of World Heritage Experience Switzerland.
Ahead of the conference, World Heritage UK General Manager Alex McCroskie welcomed the opportunity to bring the event to Northern Ireland.
He said:
“The two-day conference explores the theme of Connections through World Heritage, bringing together speakers and delegates from across the UK, Ireland and Europe to share experiences and strengthen links between World Heritage communities.”
Protecting Gracehill for future generations
For Gracehill, the visit offered more than an opportunity to celebrate its international status. It also placed the village’s ongoing conservation work before professionals involved in protecting important heritage sites elsewhere.
Two years after achieving UNESCO recognition, the focus remains on safeguarding the historic buildings, distinctive village setting and cultural heritage that make Gracehill special.
The continued involvement of the local community, alongside the council and heritage partners, will be central to ensuring the village remains both a living community and an internationally valued historic place.
