IT CIOFF® International

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 and time. The...

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 we think of...

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 Polonaise Unique? The...