THE IFUGAO RICE TERRACES (BENGUET)

The Ifugao Rice Terraces was inscribed in the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST in 1995 ""because of its great beauty that expresses conquered and conserved harmony between humankind and the environment."" There are five major rice terraces listed which are similar yet distinct from one another: BANAUE. This is the most famous of all the sites. It is the artistic center of the Ifugao carvers and the Ikat weavers. BATAD. Located also in Banaue, it is home to the spectacular tiered, amphitheater-shaped terraces. MAYOYAO. Located in Banaue. The organic Ifugao rice, Tinawon, in red and white variety, is harvested here in abundance. HAPAO. Its stone-walled rice terraces date back to 650 AD and is located in Hungduan. Mt. Napulawan is located here. KIANGAN. It is home to two famous rice terraces sites known for their size and visual impact: Nagacadan and Julungan.