Thursday, November 18, 2010
On Tuesday, 16 November 2010, the Mediterranean Diet was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Its inclusion in the Representative List is important, not just for recognition of the importance of this dietary model and the history and tradition it reflects, but also because the Community of Koroni was the one chosen to represent Greece in the cross-border candidacy for inclusion of the Mediterranean Diet in the UNESCO Representative List. In addition, it should be stressed that this is the first time that Greece has been included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
On Tuesday, 16 November 2010, the Mediterranean Diet was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Its inclusion in the Representative List is important, not just for recognition of the importance of this dietary model and the history and tradition it reflects, but also because the Community of Koroni was the one chosen to represent Greece in the cross-border candidacy for inclusion of the Mediterranean Diet in the UNESCO Representative List. In addition, it should be stressed that this is the first time that Greece has been included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Maniatakeion Foundation, in collaboration with the Directorate of Modern Cultural Heritage / Hellenic Ministry of Culture & Tourism, and the Directorate of Agricultural Policy & Documentation / Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development & Food, wholeheartedly supported and contributed to writing up and editing all the necessary data for the candidacy dossier from Koroni, and coordinated all local bodies involved in the endeavour.
Koroni was chosen because it harmoniously blends the three significant factors of local produce, tradition and history. It is an area rich in agricultural produce, such as olive oil, olives of the famed Koroneiki variety, wine, raisins, figs, a wide variety of fresh greens, herbs and aromatics, which - combined with traditional growing methods passed down from generation to generation, and customs and mores of the area - make it a model local community where the Mediterranean Diet and traditional cooking methods have remained part of the day-to-day life of local residents. Moreover, Koroni has a centuries-long history and we consider that because of the great story it has to tell, it can and ought to set the tone for the development and enrichment of local day-to-day life.
The vote for the Mediterranean Diet by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee will lead to local produce being further highlighted, to the establishment of agricultural cooperatives, and to the development of tourism and economic growth in the area. It will also offer a unique opportunity for the development of a brand name which combines history, culture, tradition, nature, man and mainly the local products used in tourism and consumed by the visitors to an area.
Koroni now has the chance to become a pilot model for development and to set an example that other areas can follow. Collaboration, not just between the four communities involved, but also between all Mediterranean countries, and preparation of a joint action plan will promote this joint heritage (which is an integral part of the cultural heritage and social life of those countries) as we struggle to combat the way in which this dietary model is being undermined because of modern, unhealthy lifestyles. D. Maniatakis, Chairman of the Maniatakeion Foundation, said, “It is a unique opportunity, that will allow the ‘UNESCO seal of approval’ to trigger a dynamic cultural awakening, and is a creative vehicle for promoting the economic growth of the area".