Arequipa’s famed regional cooking and the rich handicraft traditions of Ayacucho have earned both Andean cities a place in the Creative Cities Network of UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.
The announcement was made in Paris Oct 30. Both cities join a group of 64 other cities included in the network this year.
“Throughout the world, these cities, each in their own way, are making of their culture not an accessory but a pillar of their strategy. It is proof of political and social innovation and a powerful signal to the younger generations,” said Audrey Azoulay, director general of the UN organization.
Ayacucho boasts a rich handicraft tradition, in pottery, silver and textiles as well as other crafts. Though many artisans had to flee their homes during the harsh conflict of the Shining Path and the military and police forces, the arts have remained strong.
In Arequipa, food is a point of pride, with a long tradition of country-style cooking, a colorful and highly seasoned array of dishes cooked over wood stoves and in adobe brick ovens.
The recognition of both cities is due to the long-held traditions that have marked their identity but, more importantly, to the opportunities for development that these offer, according to Magaly Robalino, the UNESCO representative in Peru. The cities are expected to maintain their culture as a central part of their strategy and to share their best practices.
The Creative Cities Network was founded in 2004 and includes seven lines of creativity — design, cinema, gastronomy, literature, digital arts, music, handicrafts and folk art.
