Bulgaria to Submit Application for Inscription of Rose Valley on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Photo: Tourism Ministry

The Tourism Ministry has expressed support for efforts to have Bulgaria’s Rose Valley recognized as an example of preserved agricultural and cultural heritage of global significance. This transpired during a discussion that brought together all relevant stakeholders in Kazanlak. The event was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Bulgarian National Association of Essential Oils, Perfumery and Cosmetics, in partnership with the local municipality, the Tourism Ministry said.

During the meeting, it become known that Bulgaria will submit application forms for the inscription of the Rose Valley on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List and for its registration in the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems of the Food and Agriculture Organization. 

Quoted in the Ministry's press release, outgoing Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh said that the Bulgarian rose is “more than a symbol,” describing it as a living link between tradition, livelihoods, and culture. He stressed the need for joint efforts to give Bulgaria another opportunity to showcase its unique cultural heritage as a tourist destination by nominating rose-related social practices for UNESCO recognition. The Tourism Ministry will continue to support all efforts to ensure that the Rose Valley’s intangible cultural heritage takes its rightful place among internationally recognized cultural and agricultural regions, he added. 

The discussion also outlined concrete steps for regional and international cooperation to better preserve traditions and enhance global awareness of the Rose Valley, its products, and its cultural value, the Ministry said.