What is living heritage?

Living heritage refers to intangible cultural heritage that is passed down from generation to generation and evolves over time alongside communities. It is part of everyday life and celebrations, local identity, and a sense of belonging – encompassing skills, practices, knowledge, and beliefs that strengthen community cohesion and cultural diversity.

Examples of living heritage include:
• Traditional craftsmanship and use of materials
• Oral traditions, such as storytelling, languages, and dialects
• Music, dance, and performing arts
• Food traditions and festive customs
• Nature-related knowledge, such as fishing and reindeer herding