Every year on October 17, the world celebrates the International Day for the Preservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage, a UNESCO initiative designed to draw attention to the preservation of living traditions that shape the cultural identity of peoples.
Donetsk region is a land with strong cultural potential, where the traditions of the Ukrainian steppe, multinational influences, and modern creative initiatives are organically combined. This heritage not only preserves the memory of the past but also shapes the current national identity of the region's inhabitants.
Despite active hostilities in the region and forced displacement to safer regions of Ukraine, communities in the region are actively working to identify and preserve elements of intangible cultural heritage.
Thanks to the joint efforts of the cultural community, the public, folklore groups, and folk art masters, traditions are being revived, ancient rituals are being revived, recipes for ancient Ukrainian dishes are being restored, and authentic singing is being heard—all of which unites generations and roots the feeling of belonging to one's native land.
International Day for the Preservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage is an opportunity to emphasize once again that Donetsk region remains a region with deep spiritual roots, which makes a significant contribution to the preservation of the cultural heritage of Ukraine and the world.