Unesco Recognizes Belgian Beer Culture as Intangible Heritage
Belgian Beer: A Cultural Legacy
Belgium’s rich beer culture has been celebrated by Unesco, which has added it to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This prestigious designation recognizes the unique traditions and practices surrounding beer-making and consumption in Belgium.
Trappist Monks and Beer-Making
Trappist monks have played a significant role in shaping Belgian beer culture. For centuries, they have brewed exceptional beers in their monasteries, passing down their craft from generation to generation. The Trappist Ale label guarantees that a beer meets certain quality standards and is brewed by authentic Trappist monks.
Beer in Belgian Society
Beer is deeply ingrained in Belgian society. It is used in culinary creations, such as cheese washed with beer, and is celebrated at numerous town festivals. Bruges even boasts a pipeline that transports over 1,000 gallons of beer per hour on a two-mile journey.
Unesco’s Recognition
Unesco’s decision to include Belgian beer culture on its Intangible Heritage List highlights its global significance. The list recognizes cultural practices that are in need of safeguarding and those that represent the unique heritage of different cultures.
Other Intangible Cultural Heritage
Belgian beer culture joins a diverse range of other practices on Unesco’s Intangible Heritage List, including:
- India’s Chhau dance
- Croatian gingerbread craft
- Brazilian celebration of Our Lady of Nazareth
- Falconry in the United Kingdom
- Askiya, the art of wit in Uzbekistan
- Black pottery manufacturing in Portugal
A Well-Earned Honor
Belgium’s designation as a beer-loving nation is well-deserved. With over 168 active breweries and an average per capita consumption of 72 liters annually, Belgium’s beer culture is a testament to its rich brewing traditions.
Belgian Pride
Belgian leaders and brewers have expressed their pride in Unesco’s recognition. They compare the honor to winning the World Cup, highlighting the importance of beer to Belgian identity.
Unesco’s Culinary Protection
Unesco has a history of recognizing food and drink as worthy of cultural protection. In recent years, the agency has added Champagne and other French wines to its World Heritage list and included Armenian lavash and traditional Mexican cuisine on its Intangible Heritage List.
Celebrating Belgian Beer
The inclusion of Belgian beer culture on Unesco’s list is a cause for celebration for Belgians. It is an acknowledgment of their unique heritage and a testament to the enduring legacy of Belgium’s beer-making traditions. Whether it’s at a local festival or in the comfort of their homes, Belgians will continue to raise a glass to their beloved beer.
