The Traditional Knowledge of Herdsmen at the Bakony and Balaton Region

A characteristic element of cultural heritage in the Bakony and Balaton Region is the traditional grazing methodology and the herdsmen’s knowledge connected to it. It comprises an understanding of Nature, the use of the herdsmen’s traditional wear, as well as craftsmanship of traditional shepherds’ tools and equipment; all that is necessary for practicing the herdsmen’s trade.

The traditional herdsman’s skills also include elements of gastronomy, old stories of herdsmen and outlaws, a choice of grazing areas as well as veterinary and animal-keeping skills. Apart from the largely retired members of the herdsmen’s community there are always a number of young people who have chosen animal grazing for a living. We have a knowledge of close to fifty traditional herdsmen, active safeguards of the heritage, who learn from each other in the course of organised community occasions.

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