MedINA and Anemoessa are pleased to announce the inscription of the “Vine Tradition of Lemnos” in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, following the unanimous positive opinion of the National Scientific Committee for the implementation of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (UNESCO2003), which was notified on Friday 14 June 2024.
The third inscription of Lemnos, after the “Art of Melipasto (Melichloro) cheese making in Lemnos” and the “Mandra System of Lemnos”, reflects the important living heritage of the vine and its products, which has deep roots in antiquity and continues, constantly enriching and evolving, to bear fruit. Wine and other vine products are a key component of the identity of Lemnian society, with most households making their own wine and tsipouro.
Scientists, growers and winemakers -professionals and amateurs- who share the love and passion for this precious plant, which preserves unique local varieties on the island of Lemnos, collaborated in the preparation of the application.
The inscription of an ICH element in the national inventory is of great value as it helps to identify, safeguard and promote unique cultural traditions and practices. Moreover, it enhances cultural identity, promotes cultural tourism and showcases cultural diversity at an international level, strengthening cultural exchanges and the local economy and reinforcing the continuation of practices that bring society together and are strongly reflected in the landscape of the island.
Data collection, text writing, and application submission were completed in the summer of 2022. A derivative of this work and a complementary record was a video featuring excerpts from interviews with several people who contributed to the collection of the necessary data, which you can view here. MedINA and Anemoessa will continue working to promote the living heritage of Lemnos and to support the people of its agrifood sector.