An Orthodox spiritual centre since the 10th century, Mount Athos has enjoyed a self-administered status since Byzantine times. Mount Athos is also a conservatory of vernacular architecture as well as agricultural and craft traditions. IntegrityClosely associated with the history of Orthodox Christianity, Mount Athos retains its Outstanding Universal Value through its monastic establishments and artistic collections. Promotion of Mount Athos’ cultural heritage includes conferences, publications and more recently the internet. Mount Athos is well-known to the Orthodox Christian world and attracts many thousands of visitors, scholars and pilgrims every year.