Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity

The "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity" is a designation by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) that recognizes cultural practices and expressions of outstanding universal value. This initiative, distinct from the World Heritage List for sites, aims to safeguard living cultural traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and festive events that are at risk of disappearing.1

The program was established in 2003 to promote the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage. It highlights the importance of these living traditions as a source of cultural diversity and creativity. Unlike physical sites, intangible heritage is dynamic and transmitted from generation to generation, embodying a community's identity and history.1