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UNESCO Declares Italian Cuisine Intangible Cultural Heritage

12/11/2025

Summary

Italy Recognized UNESCO

Italy's national cuisine has been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The unanimous decision was announced on December 10, 2025, in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni celebrated the recognition as a testament to Italy's identity.
The status is expected to boost tourism, projecting an 8% rise in visitors.
It also creates a framework to combat counterfeit Italian food products.

Summary

UNESCO Adds Traditions

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adds home-cooked meals in Italy and yodeling to its intangible cultural heritage list.
Seventy-seven countries are applying this year to be recognized, a potential tourism boost.
Italian journalist Marco D’Eramo warns of “unescocide” amid tourism.
Ernesto Ottone, UNESCO’s assistant director general for culture, calls it cultural diplomacy.
In New Delhi, the committee reveals additions via staggered announcements, continuing a 2003 tradition.

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Italy Recognized UNESCO

Italy's national cuisine has been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The unanimous decision was announced on December 10, 2025, in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni celebrated the recognition as a testament to Italy's identity.
The status is expected to boost tourism, projecting an 8% rise in visitors.
It also creates a framework to combat counterfeit Italian food products.

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