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Living traditional heritage in the cultural space of Kalocsa: Embroidery, ornamental painting, traditional dress and folk dance

Living traditional heritage in the cultural space of Kalocsa: Embroidery, ornamental painting, traditional dress and folk dance (2009)

The colourful flower motifs of the ornamental painting and embroidery of Kalocsa are known throughout the word and indeed have often been considered an emblematic symbol of Hungarian folk art. This branch of artistic expression has become a unique element of the traditional peasant culture of Kalocsa as well as the surrounding villages of Drágszél, Homokmégy, Öregcsertő, Szakmár, and Újtelek which were established in the 18-19th centuries.

The ethnic group referred to as Pota inhabiting the area known as Kalocsai Sárköz in south-central Hungary on the west bank of the Danube is distinct from surrounding groups in the characteristic dialect members used, their rich folk art and Catholic faith.

The women of Kalocsa who still draw, paint and embroider in the traditional style are the bearers and the perpetuators of the local heritage. Traditional revival groups, folk dance groups, the local museum and folk art centre all contribute to the safeguarding of the characteristic culture and folk art that distinguishes Kalocsa identity. The inhabitants of Kalocsa and the surrounding settlements are devoted to their folk heritage.

They create numerous opportunities for the presentation of their traditional dances and attire: Midsummer Eve Festivities, Danube Folklore Festival, Kalocsa Paprika Festival, village feasts, and harvest celebrations. These events attract people of all ages and provide an excellent opportunity for the transmission of cultural heritage from generation to generation. The role of awareness raising and art education is also of paramount importance in the safeguarding and sustaining of the local heritage.




Hungarian National Commission for UNESCO
Elemér Muharay Folk Art Assosiation
Assosiation of Hungarian Folk Artists
Institute of Ethnology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences
Kriza János Ethnographic Society
Hungarian Ethnographic Society
Museum of Ethnography
Hungarian Heritage House
National Cultural Institute