Made in Italy footwear could soon gain historical recognition. In fact, a project has been launched that aims to have the art of Italian footwear included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, a goal that would enhance one of the most representative symbols of national manufacturing excellence.
The initiative was promoted by Assocalzaturifici together with Museimpresa, Cercal and Politecnico Calzaturiero, with the aim of protecting and handing down a heritage of knowledge that has distinguished Italy on the international scene for decades. Underlying the candidacy is the desire to recognize the cultural value of a sector that goes far beyond mere industrial production: in fact, behind every Italian footwear there is an interweaving of craft skills, stylistic research, technological innovation and a strong connection with the territories where these traditions have developed over time.
A key step along the way is scheduled for June 11, when the Promoting Committee charged with guiding the candidacy will be made official at the Ministry of Business and Made in Italy. The project will involve not only companies and institutions, but also all the professional figures who contribute daily to the making of footwear: artisans, technicians, designers, trainers and operators in the sector.
According to the promoters, the goal is to preserve a body of knowledge, techniques and practices that have helped build the reputation of Made in Italy around the world and that continue to evolve through the encounter between tradition and innovation. Should the candidacy be successful, the art of Italian footwear could become the first reality related specifically to this sector to obtain the prestigious UNESCO recognition. To date, in fact, the heritages already included in the organization’s lists mainly concern traditions and workings of the textile sector, while the world of footwear has not yet received similar recognition.
[📸 sergiorossi.com]
