The bellowed Norwegian national costumes have been added to UNESCO cultural heritage list. This way, UNESCO Culture Heritage List honors Norway’s national costumes.
The list inscribed the traditional costumes, their craftsmanship, and their place in society at a ceremony in Paraguay on 5 December. Norwegian national costumes, known as bunad, represent an important part of Norway’s cultural heritage. Adding them to UNESCO’s cultural heritage list would recognize their significance and help ensure their preservation for future generations.
“The fact that the cultural heritage in Norway is so well documented and upheld by UNESCO’s list is a great recognition of those who work every day to preserve traditions and practices that change over time,” says Torbjørn Urfjell at the Norwegian Directorate of Culture to Norwegian newswire NTB.
The Norwegian hand-made costumes are instantly recognizable due to their color schemes and patterns that belong to different regions, the silver the costume is usually adorned with, and the detail that goes into the embroidery. Accessories such as shoes with buckles and cloaks are also considered part of the costume.
The bunad is a symbol of Norwegian identity, often worn during important cultural and personal celebrations, such as Constitution Day (May 17th), weddings, and baptisms.
Each bunad reflects the local history, customs, and traditions of a specific region in Norway, showcasing the country’s rich diversity.
“It was a great honor to be at the meeting in Paraguay and to have the traditional Norwegian clothing included in UNESCO’s list of living cultural heritage,” says Urfjell. UNESCO’s inclusion of national costumes is the result of seven years of work from several institutions and organizations aimed at promoting the bunad or preserving cultural heritage. Input from professionals, craftsmen and traditional Norwegian national costumes (bunad) wearers across Norway has also been crucial in the process.
Creating a bunad requires highly skilled craftsmanship, including embroidery, weaving, and tailoring. These skills are often passed down through generations, preserving Norway’s intangible cultural heritage. Many bunads incorporate techniques and patterns that have remained unchanged for centuries.
UNESCO Culture Heritage List Honors Norway’s National Costumes, article continues below image.
Historical Significance
The widespread popularity of the bunad in Norway has its roots in the period of national romanticism in the 19th century, linked to the country’s struggle for independence and identity. However, older bunads are based on traditional folk costumes from the 17th and 18th centuries, making them valuable historical artifacts. In Setesdal, southern Norway, there is a tradition of folk costumes that stretches back to the 14th century.
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Promotion of Sustainability
Bunads are made with high-quality, durable materials and are designed to last for generations, aligning with modern values of sustainability.
They are often handmade, reducing reliance on mass-produced and environmentally harmful clothing.
UNESCO Culture Heritage List Honors Norway’s National Costumes, article continues below image.
Living Tradition
Bunads remain a vibrant part of Norwegian life, worn by people of all ages. They connect contemporary Norwegians with their ancestors and provide a sense of continuity. The active use of bunads in daily life and on festive occasions illustrates how cultural heritage can be both preserved and adapted.
Inspiration for Cultural Exchange
Recognizing bunads on a global stage would highlight Norway’s unique cultural contributions and foster greater appreciation for traditional dress worldwide. It might inspire other countries to preserve their traditional attire and craftsmanship.
Preservation of Local Variations
Over 200 variations of the bunad exist, each tied to specific Norwegian regions. Inclusion in UNESCO’s list could provide resources and attention to ensure these regional traditions continue to thrive.
Adding the bunad to UNESCO’s cultural heritage list would not only honor Norway’s rich history and craftsmanship but also help safeguard this tradition in the face of globalization and modernization.
UNESCO Culture Heritage List Honors Norway’s National Costumes, written by Tor Kjolberg
Feature image (on top) © OsloMet