Search
Carnival of Podence in Portugal
…and more UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage The ancient Carnival held in the village of Podence is one of the most important traditional events in northern Portugal . The local community’s massive participation has preserved this tradition for centuries. Its abiding importance in the region's cultural events was a crucial factor in UNESCO’s classifying the Carnival of Podence as an Intangible World Heritage . During Carnival, the devilish figures of the Caretos roam the streets of Podence, …
Poland: beliefs and superstitions
Salt mines, Twardowski's mirror, clover… According to folklore, avoiding bad luck when crossing paths with a black cat can be as simple as spitting three times behind your back. If you forgot or misplaced something, then the best course of action is to sit down and count to ten; a lady should never leave her purse lying on the floor as it will inevitably cause her to lose money. Walking under a ladder could bring grief and misery. It seems that the only way to avoid “tempting fate” and favor …
Romania – rich in folklore
Experience living traditions Visiting Romania, you will be delighted to discover a place alive with legends, myths and traditions that have been cherished for centuries. Life in the countryside has always been rich in folklore, with a great respect for nature and history, which are considered the very essence of Romanian culture . Nine Romanian folkloric treasures are recognized as UNESCO intangible heritage : Mărţişor, a talisman with a red and white thread, offered as a present on the 1 st of …
Croatia’s Nijemo Kolo tradition
The dance without music The Nijemo Kolo was inscribed in 2011 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and it truly deserves this title. A dance unaccompanied by music is a rare phenomenon in the traditional cultures of the world In the Dalmatian hinterland, the southernmost inland part of Croatia , the Nijemo Kolo is a traditional dance performed at village festivals, weddings, carnivals, and other special events. The dance is mainly associated with …
San Marino's medieval atmosphere
Thrilling time travel The oldest Republic in the world and its history are yours to discover! The medieval Old Town of San Marino, with its iconic three Towers, crenelated walls and narrow streets, is the perfect location to breathe the atmosphere of a distant period in time. Every nook and cranny are sure to make you feel as if you’re being carried back to the days of kings and castles. Have you ever heard about the San Marino Crossbowmen Federation ? A true flagship of San Marino's history …
Traditional celebrations in Latvia
Experience folklore, enjoy festivals Latvians continue to observe the traditions of their ancestors — culture embedded in Latvian folklore that is best experienced during the Summer Solstice or Jani holiday, the impressive Song and Dance festival , as well as through traditional crafts and handiwork, events organized by museums, and many other activities. Latvian culture and folklore are full of annual celebrations or gadskārtas . We celebrate the solstices, also known as Christmas and Easter, …
Estonia unites in song!
Tallinn to host Youth Song and Dance Festival It has been said that Estonians sang themselves a nation, and in 1991, they sang themselves free. This summer, tourists can see what music means to Estonians by attending the 2023 Youth Song and Dance Celebration . Sing a song of freedom Choral singing has a long history in Estonia, dating back to the Baltic Germans, who often used polyphonic choral singing during church services. By 1865, the first Estonian-language singing group was founded, and …
Ethnological festivals in Slovenia
Back to the roots of Slovenia’s cultural heritage Slovenia is a treasure trove of exciting cultural traditions . A great way to experience them is by attending traditional festivals , which offer insights into what remains from life as it once was. Here are Slovenia’s top 7 distinctly ethnological festivals . 1. Kurentovanje shrovetide celebration, Ptuj Kurents are the most recognisable Slovenian Carnival characters . According to folklore, they chase winter away by jumping and making …
Wallonia’s way of life
Weird and wonderful traditions In festival season, it’s hard to ignore Wallonia, in southern Belgium. Known for its quirky ways, you’d be hard pressed to beat the weird and wonderful carnivals and festivals which perfectly illustrate Walloons’ passion for local history and folklore — and the immense effort they put into their celebrations. Wallonia’s language and culture have been influenced over the centuries by invaders and conquerors. Included in this are folk traditions adopted from other …
Getting to know customs of Serbia
From traditions to travel memories Local customs, specific flavors, and cultural and historical details are what one takes home from a trip. We carry with us souvenirs that refresh our memories of a traditionally produced musical instrument, a belief expressed through a figure, a unique custom; we remember a certain region or country for these characteristics, and they are often the reason that we return. Serbia abounds in customs and traditional stories. We have chosen three for you that are …