Italian cuisine was added to UNESCO’s
‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ lists at a meeting of the UN
agency’s Intergovernmental Committee in New Delhi on Wednesday.
It is the first time a national cuisine in its entirety, rather
than a single tradition or recipe, has won world heritage
status.
The committee said that Italian cuisine is a “cultural and
social blend of culinary traditions” and “a way to care for
oneself and others, express love, and rediscover one’s cultural
roots, offering communities an outlet to share their history and
describe the world around them.”
The decision to admit the bid, which was among 60 from 56
countries under evaluation, was met by a long applause at the
hall where the committee was gathered.
“It is a communal activity that emphasizes intimacy with food,
respect for ingredients, and shared moments around the table,”
UNESCO said.
“The practice is rooted in anti-waste recipes and the
transmission of flavours, skills and memories across
generations. It is a means of connecting with family and the
community, whether at home, in schools, or through festivals,
ceremonies and social gatherings.
“People of all ages and genders participate, exchanging recipes,
suggestions and stories, with grandparents often passing down
traditional dishes to their grandchildren.
“The knowledge and skills related to the element are transmitted
both informally within families and formally in schools and
universities.
“Beyond cooking, practitioners view the element as a way of
caring for oneself and others, expressing love and rediscovering
one’s cultural roots. It gives communities an outlet to share
their history and describe the world around them. It also helps
safeguard specific cultural expressions, such as language and
gestures.
“The practice thus fosters social inclusion while promoting
well-being and offering a channel for lifelong,
intergenerational learning. It also strengthens bonds,
encourages sharing, and promotes a sense of belonging”.
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