Overview

With the assistance of the last living bearers of the element, the traditional beekeeping with movable-comb hives in Crete is documented, with a special emphasis on the clay hives of this type, vraskia. At the same time, activities are supported which contribute to the modern-day interpretation, protection and safeguarding of this element of intangible cultural heritage.

Objectives – Priorities

The action aims to contribute to the safeguarding and preservation of the traditional beekeeping method in movable-comb hives, which nowadays is in immediate danger of disappearing. Moreover, the action envisions to contribute to raising awareness about the method, as well as to enrich activities of beekeeping, cultural and alternative tourism, recreation, sightseeing and cultural routes, and related activities that are necessary for getting acquainted with this heritage, as well as for its transfer.

Activities – Deliverables

Interviews, audiovisual material, photos, a publication, a webpage dedicated to the action, clay Bee hives (replicas) and an apiary with these hives for scientific/educational purposes will be produced. Also, an event dedicated to the action will be realised. The action will be presented publicly and the deliverables will be distributed widely, so as to transfer knowledge, skills and meaning.

Rationale - Significance

The Greek traditional movable-comb hives and their mode of operation are an important element of our country's culture, but also worldwide, since these hives had a decisive effect on the development of global beekeeping. This fact makes the safeguarding and preservation of the traditional beekeeping method with these hives extremely important, perhaps more so than any other traditional beekeeping method.

The action has additional value for the inscription of the element (Traditional Beekeeping Method With Movable-comb Hives) in the Hellenic Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Expected results & Impact

The action will contribute to the safeguarding and promoting of the traditional method of beekeeping with movable-comb hives, and the clay hives themselves. At the same time, other related elements of culture will be highlighted.

The results of the action can be incorporated within a wide geographic area where movable-comb hives were traditionally used (central/ western Crete, Kythera, Antikythera, eastern Peloponnese, Argosaronic islands, Attica, Kea), without altering the identity of each region.

The method, once its importance is recognised and its viability ensured, and with the right policies in place, could make a substantial contribution to sustainable development and social cohesion.