Iran is striving to secure UNESCO recognition for its traditional felt-making and the Tirgan festival, with submissions planned for evaluation by UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee in 2026. Sima Hadadi, the head of the Registration and Preservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage, explained that the felt-making dossier was developed in partnership with six countries, emphasizing the craft’s regional importance, while the Tirgan festival application was made jointly with Armenia to highlight this shared cultural celebration.
In a recent press conference, Hadadi emphasized Iran’s commitment to preserving its intangible heritage, noting that the nation has registered 380 cultural elements nationally and 26 on the UNESCO list, which places Iran fourth worldwide in terms of UNESCO intangible heritage recognitions. Additionally, Iran has submitted a dossier for the intricate art of “Ayeneh-kari” in architecture, seeking its inscription on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list, with a review set to take place in India at the upcoming Intergovernmental Committee meeting.
The ancient craft of traditional felt-making, or Namad-mali, has been practiced for centuries in Iran’s rural areas. It involves a meticulous process of layering, rolling, and pressing wool with hot water to create Namad—a durable textile enriched with unique regional techniques, especially from Semnan province. This collaborative nomination aims to safeguard the cultural and artistic value of felt-making.
The Tirgan festival, deeply rooted in ancient Persian tradition and Zoroastrian heritage, celebrates nature and community spirit. Held on the 13th of Tir, it commemorates the legendary hero Arash the Archer who defended Persia’s boundaries with his fabled arrow—symbolizing unity and sacrifice. The festival is marked by rituals honoring water, bonfires, and the message of righteousness inherent in Zoroastrian beliefs.
Ayeneh-kari, or mirror-making, traces its origins back 2,700 years to the Achaemenid era, evolving into an exquisite art form during the Safavid and Qajar periods. Decorative mirrors, cut into intricate shapes, adorned grand structures like the Chehel Sotun Palace in Isfahan, creating a stunning interplay of light and reflection that captivates the eye. This stunning heritage aims to remind people of their intricate history and artistry in architecture.
Iran is pursuing UNESCO recognition for traditional felt-making and the Tirgan festival, with evaluations scheduled for 2026. The felt-making dossier was developed alongside six countries, while the Tirgan festival submission included Armenia. Additionally, Iran has submitted a dossier for Ayeneh-kari in architecture, showcasing commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and shared practices. If approved, these additions will enhance Iran’s cultural profile on the international stage.
The submissions of Iran’s traditional felt-making, the Tirgan festival, and Ayeneh-kari underscore its dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural legacies. By seeking UNESCO designation, Iran not only aims to protect these intangible cultural practices but also to enhance regional collaboration and international recognition of its diverse heritage. If successful, these initiatives would enrich the global cultural tapestry that UNESCO represents and celebrate Iran’s unique contributions to art and tradition.
Iran’s rich cultural heritage spans thousands of years and manifests in various artistic traditions, crafts, and celebrations that reflect its historical and social evolution. The efforts to gain UNESCO recognition for traditional practices not only highlight the importance of these practices in the national identity but also emphasize international collaboration in preserving cultural heritage. By submitting their practices for recognition, Iran illustrates its commitment to maintaining its traditional crafts and fostering unity through shared heritage.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
