Cultural heritage: Asturian cider enters UNESCO list
The art of Asturian cider, from planting to pouring, gains worldwide recognition
In 2024, UNESCO declared Asturian cider culture as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for its relevance to the identity and tradition of Asturias, a region in northern Spain that stands out for its nature, mountainous landscapes, cultural heritage and its rural, active and gastronomic tourism proposals. This recognition highlights the value of the integral process of cider, from the planting of apple trees to its consumption, including practices such as pouring and its presence in celebrations and festive rituals. The candidacy, promoted by the Government of the Principality of Asturias since 2014, refers to the whole set of activities related to production processes, distribution and consumption of natural cider. These practices, which have been developed in Asturias since at least the early Middle Ages, transcend the material to become a sense of personal identity and belonging to the community.
Asturian cider, more than a beverage, is a symbol of social and cultural cohesion that helps to preserve the landscapes of the area, both in its natural and human dimension, fixes population in rural areas, promotes the development of a typical gastronomy, is part of traditional festivities and contributes to the conservation and transmission of musical and linguistic heritage. This international recognition represents an exceptional opportunity to enhance the attractiveness of Asturias as a cultural and gastronomic destination, attracting visitors interested in its traditions and strengthening the local economy. Spain now has 22 cultural events with this recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. This incorporation is expected to further boost the creation of thematic routes, visits to cider cider mills and cider-related activities, enriching the region's tourist offer.
