VIDEO // Decision of Intergovernmental UNESCO Committee: Romanian cobza and craft of instrument making included in Intangible Cultural Heritage

Romanian cobza, together with the traditional techniques and music associated with this instrument has been included in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was adopted today in New Delhi, during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to the speaker, this represents "a sign of respect for the cobza and for the people who have kept it alive".


"An extraordinary piece of news for the Republic of Moldova: Romanian cobza and the craft of making this ancient musical instrument have been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was taken today in New Delhi, during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, through a joint file of the Republic of Moldova and Romania. UNESCO's decision is a sign of respect for the cobza and for the people who have kept it alive," speaker Igor Grosu wrote on his Facebook page.


The nomination was submitted through a joint file of the Republic of Moldova and Romania, strengthening cultural cooperation between the two states. It is the fifth joint file accepted by UNESCO.


"An extraordinary piece of news for the Republic of Moldova: Romanian cobza and the craft of making this ancient musical instrument have been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. UNESCO's decision is a sign of respect for the cobza and for the people who have kept it alive," stated Minister of Culture Cristian Jardan.


During his visit to the folk craftsman Nicolae Dron in the village of Gura Galbenei, Cristian Jardan emphasized the essential role of instrument creators in preserving tradition, highlighting that Dron family is the only one in the world that continues to make cobzas in a traditional manner.


"It is a responsibility for all of us: to continue to support this craft and traditional music, which is part of our common identity," stated the minister.


Cobza is a traditional plucked string instrument from the lute family, originating in the Arab Orient.