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At the end of 2022, and on the occasion of the 17th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, UNESCO met in Rabat (Morocco) to add 33 new inscriptions to its list

UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list aims to preserve and promote cultural diversity across the world, and these new additions reflect the richness and variety of cultural traditions in different parts of the planet.

With the increase in globalization, the condition of singularity or exclusivity tends to be lost, which is why it is so important to recognize the heritage of nations and the importance of maintaining cultural diversity.

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Intangible cultural heritage aims to promote intercultural dialogue and mutual respect for other forms of life. Its importance lies not in the cultural expression itself, but in the wealth of knowledge and skills which are transmitted from generation to generation through it.

Among the latest news are: the sheep's cheese culture of Kars in Turkey, the rain dance of the indigenous people of Colombia, the art of falconry in Mongolia, the embroidery tradition of the city of Lukomir in Bosnia and Herzegovina or the music and dance of the mariachis in Mexico.

Kars

The city of Kars in eastern Turkey is famous for its sheep's cheese culture. In fact, the production and sale of this product is an important source of income for the inhabitants of Kars and its surroundings.

Kars sheep cheese It is an important part of the region's diet and culture and has been made the traditional way for centuries. It is characterized by its strong, salty flavor and hard, grainy texture. It is used in many local gastronomic dishes, such as “kete”, a type of pie filled with cheese and other ingredients, or “katmer”, a type of flatbread filled with cheese and served hot.

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Colombia

the rain dance It is an important cultural manifestation for the indigenous people of Colombia, as it reflects their connection with nature and their respect for the environment. This traditional practice aims to summon the rain to ensure good harvests and maintain natural balance.

In the Rain Dance, participants usually wear traditional costumes and carry musical instruments. Offerings are also made to the gods and invocations are made to ask for rain.

Mongolia

O falconry It is a traditional practice in Mongolia that consists of breeding and training birds of prey, especially eagles, to hunt prey on the Mongolian steppe.

In Mongolia, falconry is more than just hunting, it is also a way of connection between man and nature. Hunters train and care for their eagles with great dedication and respect, and see these birds as companions and allies. This activity has great cultural importance, as many of the hunters are nomads who have maintained this tradition over the centuries.

Mongolian hunter | Source: Blogspot

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The city of Lukomir, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is known for its rich embroidery tradition, highly valued for its beauty and complexity. This is characterized by its geometric and floral designs, which reflect the skill and creativity of the inhabitants. Through embroidery, the culture and identity of the region passed from generation to generation, becoming an art highly appreciated throughout the country.

Zmijanje embroidery | Source: UNESCO

Mexico

He mariachi It is a highly valued cultural expression in Mexico, and its music, singing and dancing are an important part of celebrations and festivities throughout the country. Mariachis are also known for their traditional clothing, including charro suits embellished with silver details and wide-brimmed hats.

In fact, in 2019 they won the Guinness Record for the World's Largest Folk Dance in the city of Guadalajara as part of the International Meeting of Mariachi and Charrería.