Folk art of Sárköz – weaving, embroidery, beading and costume (2012)

Sárköz is a culturally distinct region comprising five settlements (Decs, Öcsény, Sárpilis, Alsónyék and Báta) on the western bank of the Danube River in south-central Hungary.

The rich folk art of the predominantly Calvinist Sárköz is a direct result of the rapid economic development transpiring in the 19th century after the regulation of the Danube and mitigation of flooding in the area.

The distinctive weaving, embroidery, collar-like beaded necklaces, elaborate costumes of colorful fine fabrics decorated with gabóca lace, the ornate female headdress of velvet, together with the distinctive spoken dialect, folk songs and dances of the region all contribute to the unique character of Sárköz cultural identity. Today the local ‘Wedding in Sárköz’ event embodies all of these cultural domains and serves as an exemplary program to present, safeguard and transmit the traditional folk art and folklore of Sárköz and to ensure its viability.

The local traditional handcraft artists – most belonging to the Folk Artist Association of Tolna County, the folk dancers, singers and musicians – primarily operating in revival associations  –  are the bearers and transmitters of the traditional Sárköz heritage. Local institutions of education also play a major role in raising awareness and ensuring survival of the cultural treasure by including the Sárköz heritage in the local curriculum.

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