Ministry of Culture: Eleven new entries added to Greece’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO

“Each element of intangible cultural heritage is a precious bearer of identity, experience, and creative expression—linking past and present while shaping the future. Intangible heritage is living, experiential, and transferable—a way of life, perception, and participation in community life. It remains a consistent priority of our cultural policy, not only as a subject of protection but as an active field of participation, education, and intergenerational exchange. These inclusions reflect the Ministry’s ongoing support for the communities and institutions working to safeguard and promote this heritage, strengthening their initiatives and jointly creating a modern and sustainable framework for preserving this intangible yet deeply tangible cultural legacy.”

The eleven elements inscribed in Greece’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage are:

Kedara (Fitei, Imathia)
A Christmas custom performed at midnight on December 23 by the Fitei Cultural Association in collaboration with the local community. Members light a large bonfire of cedar branches, dance around it, and share roasted chickpeas, raisins, wine, and tsipouro. Traditional foods prepared by the women of the village are served, and throughout the night, participants chant rhythmically, “Kolinta Kolinta kai Christos gennietai” (“Christ is born”).

The Tsakonian Weaving Art of Kilims in Tyros, Arcadia
In the workshop of the Psarrologou–Rodopoulou family in Tyros, the tradition of weaving kilims on an upright loom has continued unbroken for three generations, passed down experientially from mother to daughter. Made of cotton warp and woolen weft, the kilims are woven entirely by hand and are identical on both sides. Today, Elisavet Rodopoulou, a third-generation weaver, continues the craft with her mother, safeguarding and evolving the Tsakonian weaving tradition.

Bambinten of Petroussa (Drama)
A vibrant celebration held annually on January 6–8, characterized by processions, traditional dances, local instruments (lyres and ntachares), and masquerades. The event blends ancient customs, communal feasting, and music in a three-day village-wide celebration.

Lazaroudia of Rodavgi (Arta)
On the eve of Lazarus Saturday, residents of Rodavgi gather at the courtyard of St. Paraskevi Church to sing traditional Lazarus songs—a cherished Easter custom preserved by the local Cultural Association and community groups.

The Dance of Gachelona in Mikrokastro (Voio, Kozani)
A humorous, men’s circular dance performed on New Year’s Day without musical accompaniment. The lead dancer performs theatrical, improvised movements while others follow in rhythm, celebrating local humor and festive spirit.

Siniotikos Dance of Corfu
A traditional 2/4 rhythm syrtos dance originating from the village of Siniés. Danced in a circle by men and women, the lead dancer performs elegant, skillful steps and flourishes.

Argos Orestiko Carnival (Kastoria)
A three-day annual celebration held from December 31 to January 2, known as the first carnival of the year and one of a kind worldwide. Rooted in Dionysian and Roman Calendae traditions, it features parades, costumed dances, and ritual performances dating back to at least the 19th century.

The Pottery Tradition of the Anetopoulos Family in Malaki (Volos)
A folk pottery craft sustained through four generations of the Anetopoulos family since the late 19th century, reflecting the deep ties between craftsmanship, material culture, and local identity in Volos.

Cultivation and Processing of Agen Prunes in Skopelos
The black Agen plum, originally brought from France, has become integral to Skopelos’ agricultural and cultural life. The fruit is sun-dried in traditional wood-fired ovens, and its cultivation has shaped the island’s social and economic identity across generations.

Trade Fair of Argos Orestiko
One of the oldest and largest trade fairs in the Balkans, dating back to the 17th century. Held annually in late September to early October, it remains a major commercial and social event for the region.

The “Cycle of Fava” in the Greek Islands
A culinary and cultural tradition across the Aegean islands, fava (split peas) is an ancient dish made from local legume varieties. Its cultivation and preparation are tied to local customs and festivals, forming an essential part of both everyday and celebratory island cuisine.