RED BAY, N.L. -- A small town on the southern coast of Labrador has been recognized as Canada's newest world heritage site.

Parks Canada says Red Bay, N.L., is home to the most complete and extensive example of 16th-century Basque whaling stations.

It's the country's 17th site to receive the international designation.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization made the decision at its annual meeting in Cambodia.

Red Bay is Newfoundland and Labrador's third world heritage site, joining L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site and Gros Morne National Park.

Nearly 1,000 other sites around the world are on the UNESCO list, which recognizes places of exceptional beauty or cultural value.