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".
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
