The traditional Albanian musical instrument Lahuta has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, marking a significant recognition of its cultural and historical value.
The announcement was made by Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama, who shared the news on Facebook, emphasizing the importance of protecting this unique element of Albanian heritage.
“LAHUTA, PART OF UNESCO. The Lahuta has been officially declared a cultural heritage asset on UNESCO’s list for urgent safeguarding,” Rama wrote.
A Symbol of Albanian Identity
The Lahuta—an ancient, single-stringed instrument traditionally used by rhapsodists to perform epic songs—holds a central place in Albanian oral tradition. Its inclusion in UNESCO’s protected list highlights both its cultural significance and the need for immediate preservation efforts, as the number of practitioners and makers has declined over the years.
This recognition strengthens regional efforts to safeguard traditional craftsmanship, epic singing, and folklore that have defined Albanian communities for centuries.
UNESCO’s Urgent Safeguarding List
The list includes cultural expressions that face the risk of disappearing without targeted protection. By adding the Lahuta, UNESCO encourages states and cultural institutions to invest in education, documentation, training of artisans, and broader promotion initiatives to ensure continuity.
The decision also elevates the Lahuta on an international stage, placing it alongside other endangered cultural practices that embody the heritage of nations.
