Cucina Italiana Becomes UNESCO World Heritage

A historic moment: UNESCO honors an entire national cuisine for the first time – celebrating Italian food culture as an expression of tradition, community, and identity.

A milestone for Italy’s culinary identity

During its session in New Delhi, UNESCO officially added Italian cuisine to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Instead of celebrating a single dish, the designation recognizes a living cultural system: from home cooking and regional specialties to centuries-old rituals surrounding shared meals.

More than food: A social and emotional ritual

UNESCO emphasizes that the cucina italiana goes far beyond recipes. It is described as an act of care, a social ritual, and a cultural expression that creates identity and passes on cultural values. Food becomes a language: a way to express love, preserve history, and foster a sense of belonging.

Pride and emotion across Italy

The Italian government called the recognition a “historic honor.” Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni referred to the cuisine as the country’s greatest “cultural ambassador.” Reactions across Italy range from national pride to heartfelt statements from small producers who feel their artisanal traditions have been strengthened.

Economic opportunities – and responsibility

With UNESCO status, many regions expect new impulses for quality, protection of origin, and culinary tourism. At the same time, experts stress that the recognition comes with responsibility: to preserve traditions while continuing to nurture the innovative spirit of Italian cuisine.