UNESCO has officially added the lahuta to its Intangible Cultural Heritage List for urgent safeguarding.

President Bajram Begaj said the list “becomes richer today.” He stated that the art of making, playing, and singing with the lahuta is now part of UNESCO’s heritage.

This tradition forms a core part of identity in northern Albanian rural areas. Communities in Malësia e Madhe, Dukagjini, Malësia e Gjakovës, Rugova, Drenica, Plava, and Gucia have kept it alive for centuries.

Lahutars have carried the Epos of the Kreshniks and northern ballads across generations. They have expressed values of courage, resilience, honor, trust, and hospitality.

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