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In a world that often feels divided by borders and digital screens, there is a place where the heartbeat of humanity remains synchronized: the International Folklore Festival . Under the banner of CIOFF® , these festivals are far more than mere performances. They are vibrant, sensory manifestations of our shared history and a powerful tool for global peace. But what is it that makes these gatherings so essential in the 21st century? 1. Safeguarding the "Living" Heritage When

If you have ever been mesmerized by a folk festival where dancers from across the globe share their traditions in a whirlwind of color and music, you have likely experienced the work of CIOFF® . But what exactly is this organization, and why is it so vital to our global culture? The Guardians of Living Heritage CIOFF®  (the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts ) is an international non-governmental organization (NGO) in Official Partnersh

In the heart of the Adriatic, on an island where the stars shine brighter than anywhere else in Croatia, a 540-year-old tradition has just received the highest global honor. In late 2025, the Lastovo Poklad  was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Register of Good Safeguarding Practices . For the CIOFF® family and heritage lovers worldwide, this isn't just another entry on a list. It is a masterclass in how a community can protect its soul against the tides of commercialism an

It is more than just a dance; it is a walking story of Polish dignity, history, and community. Recently, the world celebrated a momentous occasion for Polish culture: the Polonaise (Polonez)  was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity . This recognition is a tribute to a tradition that has moved from royal courts to modern school balls, remaining a heartbeat of Polish identity for centuries. What Makes the Polona

Have you ever seen a pattern so precise it looks like embroidery, yet it was born directly on a loom? Deep in the heart of eastern Poland , in the picturesque region of Podlasie , lies a hidden treasure of European folklore: Perebory . This unique weaving technique is more than just a craft; it is a mathematical art form that has survived centuries, earning a rightful place on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. What exactly are Perebory? The word perebory refe