Liscio begins UNESCO heritage bid process

The formal process toward nominating Liscio for inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list has begun. Regional Councillor for Culture Gessica Allegni convened mayors and cultural officials from municipalities across Emilia-Romagna to define the strategy for the next steps.

The process was launched in 2023 following a bipartisan resolution by the regional legislative assembly, CE Report quotes ANSA.

Liscio, which originated between the 19th and 20th centuries from the meeting of local folk traditions and European influences such as the waltz, polka, and mazurka, developed as a widespread cultural phenomenon tied to social gathering places—from farmyards to dance halls, and later to modern festivals.

The nomination aims to highlight this diversity of local expressions, recognizing variety as a defining feature.

Planned phases include mapping the communities involved, strengthening regional networks, collecting testimonies from musicians, dancers, orchestras, dance schools, and event organizers, and collaboratively building the final dossier.

The work is based on the platform Vai Liscio, already active in collecting documents and testimonies. As required by UNESCO guidelines, the process will conclude with defining safeguarding measures and drafting the final nomination file.

“Liscio,” Allegni said, “represents an encounter between generations, inclusion, and the ability to embrace and integrate diverse influences. The recognition process is an opportunity that can benefit the entire region and foster growth in the local music sector.”