The Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, presided yesterday evening over the official ceremony for submitting nomination files for rich elements of Algeria’s intangible cultural heritage for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage lists. According to a statement from the Ministry of Culture, the ceremony took place in a celebration reflecting the authenticity of the Algerian identity at the headquarters of the National Center for Prehistoric, Anthropological and Historical Research (CNRPAH) in Algiers.
The statement indicated that the presence of the spouse of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Serbia, during her official visit to Algeria, added a high diplomatic character to the ceremony, highlighting Algerian heritage as a strong bridge for civilizational communication and a soft power that radiates to the peoples of the world.
At the top of these sovereign files was the file: “The art of the Blouza and its decoration in the Greater Algerian West: knowledge, skills, and ceremonies.” This nomination is a celebration of an aesthetic structure that encapsulates the memory of women in western Algeria, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and deep social rituals that have made the “Blouza” a symbol of Algerian elegance and cultural roots that defy time.
Within a comprehensive national strategy aimed at preserving intangible heritage and enhancing its international presence, the Ministry submitted quality files reflecting the diverse richness of Algerian culture. Algeria also contributed to the preparation of other joint Arab files, such as the knowledge, skills, and practices associated with handmade pottery and traditional irrigation systems.
The Ministry added that this cultural achievement reflects the state’s commitment to fortifying national identity and promoting cultural heritage internationally, ensuring it remains a source of pride for generations and a human legacy protected by the power of history and international influence.
