Jurauski Karahod folk rite added to UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list

The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage decided to inscribe the element "Spring Rite of Jurauski Karahod" into the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding at its 14th session in Colombia. The living form of the rite has survived only in Pogost Village, Zhitkovichi District, Gomel Region, Belarus. It is a small village, located in the south of the country, not far from the ancient town of Turov. The rite is performed in spring on the day of St. Jur’ya, the patron saint of pets and agriculture. According to the tradition, on this day, for the first time after winter, the cattle was brought to the field. Jurauski Karahod includes loaf baking, colorful towels and a festive dinner. Locals believe that the rite contributes to a good harvest. This is Belarus’ third element in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This status was granted to the traditional folk rite Kalyady Tsars (Christmas Tsars) and Celebration in Honor of the Budslau Icon of Our Lady (Budslau Fest).