Their Majesties King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck have been honoured with the prestigious Hadrian Award by the World Monuments Fund (WMF) for their exceptional leadership in safeguarding Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

The honour was announced during WMF’s 36th annual Hadrian Gala, held at the Temple of Dendur in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Bhutan was represented by its Ambassador to the United Nations, Pema Lektup Dorji, while Their Majesties shared a heartfelt pre-recorded video message from Bhutan.

A Legacy of Cultural Stewardship

The Hadrian Award, established in 1988, celebrates individuals and institutions whose vision and commitment have made extraordinary contributions to preserving the world’s shared cultural heritage. Named after the Roman Emperor Hadrian (117–138 CE) — famed for his architectural legacy — the award recognises those who embody the spirit of preservation and global understanding.

Their Majesties were honoured for their unwavering dedication to protecting Bhutan’s tangible and intangible heritage — from sacred monasteries and traditional architecture to ancient festivals and living traditions — while guiding the kingdom towards sustainable and inclusive development.

An Evening of Global Recognition

This year’s Gala also honoured philanthropist David M. Rubenstein and raised a record USD 2.5 million to support WMF’s mission of conserving monuments and cultural sites around the world. The event was co-chaired by Marina Kellen French, Christian Louboutin, and Melissa Stewart, and gathered a distinguished guest list including Prince Amyn Aga Khan, Mira Nair, Ashley Olsen, Annabelle Selldorf, and others.

The evening also marked the announcement of a new endowment initiative — the Suzanne Deal Booth Institute for Heritage Preservation — aimed at raising USD 60 million to ensure the long-term protection of heritage sites globally. In his acceptance speech, Rubenstein remarked: “When you are asked to help preserve a historic site, do not think you are merely preserving the past — for you are really helping to advance the future.” His words resonated deeply with the values that Bhutan and Their Majesties uphold.

A Distinguished Line of Past Honourees

Since its inception, the Hadrian Award has been bestowed upon global champions of cultural preservation, including Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain, The Stavros Niarchos Foundation, David Rockefeller Sr., and His Highness the Aga Khan. Other past recipients include Peter Marino and Dr. Marilyn Perry (2024), Maryvonne Pinault and Tata Sons (2023), Dr. Elizabeth Alexander and Christian Louboutin (2022), and Dr. Thomas S. Kaplan and HRH Princess Dana Firas (2019), among many others.

Bhutan’s Enduring Message

Through visionary leadership, Their Majesties continue to champion the preservation of Bhutan’s identity — one that harmoniously blends ancient wisdom with modern aspirations. This recognition not only celebrates Their Majesties’ profound commitment but also highlights Bhutan’s enduring message to the world: that true progress flourishes when culture, compassion, and sustainability walk hand in hand. The Hadrian Award 2025 stands as a testament to Bhutan’s role as a global beacon of mindful stewardship, a kingdom where heritage is not only preserved but lived.

In line with Their Majesties’ vision of cultural preservation, Bhutan has also embarked on the Museums of Bhutan Project, a national initiative to revitalise and connect the country’s network of museums. Guided by His Majesty’s aspiration to make culture accessible, relevant, and inspiring to younger generations, the project aims to transform Bhutan’s museums into living spaces of learning — where art, history, and spirituality are experienced, not merely observed. Through community engagement and innovative storytelling, the Museums of Bhutan Project seeks to safeguard the nation’s heritage while nurturing creative education and global cultural exchange.