Yerevan, Armenia – On June 3, 2026, a significant step was taken in the preservation and popularization of Armenia’s intangible cultural heritage. The list of intangible cultural heritage values of Armenia was expanded with 12 new elements by a decision of the Government of the Republic of Armenia, emphasizing the diversity and vitality of the national culture. This was reported by the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports.
New Additions Bring Total to 80
With this decision, the list of intangible cultural heritage values has been supplemented with 12 new elements, bringing the total number to 80.
The newly included elements are:
- “Folk knowledge of weather forecasting related to luminaries”
- “Lullabies in the communities of Shirak region of Armenia”
- “The tradition of making and using Gata-nakshi”
- “Khab u khaz (katpakh)”
- “The tradition of making and using the drum (dhol, gos – big drum)”
- “Hunters and Ducks” ball game
- “Tak tsaghketsav” song
- “Forms of community mutual aid in the Gavar funeral rite”
- “Preparation and use of hemp kufta in Martuni community”
- “Preparation of fish dolma in Sevan community”
- “Preparation of chortne dolma in Vardenis communities”
- “Chilinki pet” traditional game in Chambarak community
The values included in the list of intangible cultural heritage are important expressions of the Armenian people’s cultural uniqueness, historical memory, and national identity. Their preservation, transmission, and popularization play a crucial role in ensuring cultural continuity between generations and increasing Armenia’s recognition in international cultural platforms.
Framework for Preservation and Promotion
The basis for the implementation of this process is the Government of the Republic of Armenia’s decision N 310-A of March 11, 2010, on “Standards for compiling lists of intangible cultural values of the Republic of Armenia and approving the list of intangible cultural heritage values.” The initiative stems from the strategy for the preservation, development, and popularization of culture of the Republic of Armenia for 2023-2027, approved by the Government of the Republic of Armenia’s decision N 1951-L of November 9, 2023, within the framework of which a systematic inventory of Armenia’s intangible cultural heritage is being carried out.
This expansion underscores Armenia’s commitment to safeguarding its rich cultural tapestry and ensuring that these traditions are passed down to future generations, contributing to both national identity and global cultural diversity.
Source: https://verelq.am/hy/node/173853
