Intangible Cultural Heritage – a human legacy

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Recently, Portugal has seen a significant increase in the recognition of cultural events as part of the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage .

Among the most recent examples are the Festas das Cruzes, in Barcelos, and the Festas de S. Gonçalinho, in Aveiro.

But here’s the ultimate question: what is intangible cultural heritage and why is it so necessary to safeguard it?

Tradicional festivity - Intangible cultural heritage

 

What does intangible cultural heritage tell us?

Intangible cultural heritage is a great legacy left by human beings. It is made up of representations, practices, knowledge and know-how recognized by communities as fundamental elements of their cultural identity.

According to UNESCO’s definition, this type of heritage includes:

– Oral traditions and expressions, including language as a vehicle for transmitting cultural heritage.

– Performing arts, such as music, dance or theater.

– Ritual and social practices and festive events.

– Knowledge and practices about nature and the universe, such as cultivation methods.

– Know-how related to traditional handicrafts, preserving techniques passed down from generation to generation.

 

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Intangible Cultural Heritage

 

The dimensions of intangible cultural heritage

Intangible heritage has particularly relevant dimensions that deserve special attention:

– It is traditional, contemporary and alive: it is not just limited to the legacies of the past, but also includes rural and urban practices that remain active and relevant today.

– It belongs to communities: it is shared by people, communities and groups who recognize these practices as an integral part of their way of life, and is therefore a reflection of their cultural identity.

– It is dynamic: this heritage evolves over time, adapting to social, economic and cultural changes without losing its essence.

Why is it important to safeguard intangible cultural heritage? Cover of the Guide for Heritage Preservation

Intangible cultural heritage represents one of the most important dimensions of the identity of a territory and its people. Safeguarding it is crucial to preserving cultural diversity and, at the same time, strengthening community identities. Let’s take a closer look:

– It guarantees cultural continuity: traditions and intangible practices connect generations and ensure the transmission of valuable knowledge.

– Reinforces a sense of belonging: protecting intangible heritage strengthens the bonds between people and their community.

– Stimulating creativity and innovation: this heritage can inspire new cultural expressions, promoting the dynamism of local cultures and contributing to the social and economic development of communities.

On the national scene, Portugal has played an active role in preserving this heritage, as we have seen with the latest entries in the National Inventory.

Knowledge and recognition are the first steps towards its protection.

Charter for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage

In this context, it is important to highlight a fundamental document: the Charter for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, promoted by UNESCO.

This guiding document defines measures to identify, document, protect and promote cultural practices, ensuring that they are passed on to future generations.

painted terracota

 

Examples of intangible heritage in Portugal

The National Inventory of Cultural Heritage is an essential measure for safeguarding intangible heritage. It is an instrument that aims to inventory, study and document the goods that make up intangible heritage.

In addition to the examples mentioned at the beginning of the text, the following also stand out:

– Fado, a musical symbol and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

– Filigree from Gondomar, an expression of the region’s identity and a goldsmithing technique.

– Redondo Pottery Decoration Techniques, an artistic expression and tradition in Portuguese pottery.

– Bombo Collective Practices in Portugal, a performative and musical expression deeply rooted in Portuguese communities.

Bombo Collective Practices in Portugal

 

Safeguarding as a collective commitment

The protection of intangible cultural heritage is not just the responsibility of institutions. Communities, groups and individuals play a central role in its identification, knowledge and transmission.

It is up to all of us to ensure that these traditions live on and can be shared with the world, honoring our roots and enriching the present and future.

Portugal, with its diversity of cultural manifestations, demonstrates that intangible heritage is a reflection of the soul of its people. By valuing, preserving and teaching it, we not only protect the past, but also guarantee a future rich in identity and diversity.

The future begins today, with the preservation of what only human beings know how to create!

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