Belarus has begun preparing a national dossier titled “Dishes Made from Grated Potatoes” for inclusion in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The initiative aims to safeguard the traditions of preparing and consuming famous national dishes that have become symbols of the country, BELTA reports.

According to Irina Dashchinskaya, a representative of the Ministry of Culture, inclusion in the UNESCO list significantly enhances a country’s prestige. It makes national culture more recognizable and attractive to tourists from around the world. Protecting such traditions helps preserve national identity and ensures the sustainable development of culture.

Today, Belarus is widely represented in UNESCO:

• Tangible heritage sites: Belovezhskaya Pushcha, Mir and Nesvizh Castles, and the Struve Geodetic Arc.

• Traditions: The list already includes straw weaving, vytynanka (traditional paper-cutting), forest beekeeping, and unique rituals such as the “Kalyadny Tsary” (Christmas Kings).

Efforts to promote cultural heritage continue on an ongoing basis. In April 2025, a large exhibition project opened in Nesvizh, and a presentation was held in Paris for the nomination of the memorials of the Brest Fortress and Mamayev Kurgan for inclusion in the World Heritage List.

For public convenience, a search website and application titled “State List of Historical and Cultural Values” has been created. Anyone can now find information on 5,690 architectural and artistic monuments in Belarus. The restoration of castles and churches not only preserves history but also contributes to regional economic development through tourism.

ORIENT