Czech Amateur Theatre Added to UNESCO Cultural Heritage List

UNESCO has added amateur theatre in the Czech Republic to its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, recognising a long-standing tradition deeply rooted in community life.

A Long-Standing Tradition

According to the Czech Ministry of Culture, the tradition has existed continuously for more than 200 years and is closely linked to civic engagement and intergenerational exchange. It is supported by a nationwide network of theatre groups, festivals, and educational organisations, and is considered the largest cultural element currently inscribed for Czechia.

Czech amateur theatre also reflects the Czech sense of humour, with Czechs often described as a witty and playful nation. By the way, a 2025 study based on the Humour Styles Questionnaire, which surveyed over 6,000 participants from 30 countries, declared the Czech Republic the funniest nation in the world.

Alongside amateur theatre, Czech traditions on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list include the King´s Ride, puppetry, falconry, traditional indigo printing, the Slovácko verbuňk dance, and Czech beer culture.