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ARCHIVED - Valencian paella seeks recognition as Item of Cultural Interest
This emblematic dish is both traditional and contemporary, as the art of making a paella is passed down from generation to generation
The paella is a very strong and iconic image of Spanish gastronomy and achieving recognition for its status is felt to be a useful tool in promoting the gastronomic traditions of the region and promoting the paella as being a Valencian dish.
The Technical Commission for the Study and Inventory of Intangible Patrimonial Heritage in the region of Valencia has decided to approve a request to make the ‘Valencian Paella, the art of sharing and caring’ an Item of Cultural Interest.
The request was presented by the Tourism department from the city council in Valencia, with support from the three provincial councils, Town Halls, Universities and cultural entities as well as from restaurants in the region and renowned chefs.
The decision to approve the Valencian paella as an Item of Cultural Interest was based on the fact that the paella is both a traditional and a contemporary dish, as well as being an important social phenomenon. The art of making a paella constitutes a representative characteristic of society in the region of Valencia and is a key element of the local gastronomy.
The paella is an identifying symbol across the region and the popular rice-based dish has remained constant throughout the years as the recipe is passed from generation to generation. The traditional customs, habits and rituals that go into the preparation of a paella are still present today.
The various possibilities that the preparation of this dish offers as well as its status as a cultural icon make the paella a unique asset not only in the region of Valencia but also on an international level, as the paella is the most well-known Spanish dish across the world.
