About the Project
EcoMuseum Zagori is one of the 8 European Heritage Days Stories awarded grants in 2024 organizations for their contribution to the promotion of cultural heritage. As part of this significant distinction, the “Echoes of Tradition” is being implemented—an innovative initiative dedicated to highlighting the cultural heritage of transhumance, with particular emphasis on the role of women in local communities.
The primary goal of Echoes of Tradition is the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage associated with transhumance. It aims to highlight the significance of transhumance for local cultural identity and the natural environment, showcasing the role of women in preserving and transmitting traditional knowledge and practices.
The project includes a series of activities that combine cultural tradition with modern presentation methods. Among these is a photo and video exhibition, which took place from January 8 to 14, 2025, focusing on transhumance, highlighting the practices, landscapes, and stories of the people who continue this tradition. In addition, an event was organized on January 8th about the cultural and social significance of transhumance, featuring interesting talks from scientists, cultural organizations, and community representatives, covering various aspects of transhumance. The event and exhibition were held at the “D. Hatzis” Cultural Complex in the city of Ioannina with great participation.
Echoes of Tradition aspires to become a reference point for understanding the cultural significance of transhumance and to strengthen intergenerational transmission of tradition. The active participation of the local community, combined with scientific documentation, ensures the sustainability and dynamism of the project in the future.
A Journey into Cultural Heritage
In the mountainous paths and plains of Epirus, the voices of the herders resonate. They are people who live in harmony with nature, following the rhythm of the seasons.
Transhumance is not just a practice; it is a living heritage. Every path carved, every shelter built, every song heard, carries the strength of the people who insisted on living on their own way, defying hardships and changing eras.
The voices of these people echo strongly through the women of the community. Often silent in the eyes of history, but strong in their actions, these women maintain the balance. They wove, cooked, raised children, and cared for the animals, keeping the community alive. The echo of their contribution, their daily love and devotion, can still be heard. They carry with them centuries of wisdom, techniques, and secrets passed down from mother to daughter, from generation to generation. In their movements, in their actions, in the stories they tell, the tradition of transhumance comes alive. These women are the silent guardians of tradition, but also the creators of the future. With their patience, creativity, and love for the land and the community, they shape a sustainable path for all.
The “Echoes of Tradition” exhibition is an invitation to listen to these voices. Through the photographs and videos, you will feel the presence of these people. Their echo is there – in the characteristic whistles, the bells of the herds, in the stories told by the mountains and the plains.
Their echo still resonates. It is the power that connects us to our roots. It is the voice of the past that guides us into the future.
The action has been funded within the framework of European Heritage Days, a Joint Project between the European Union and the Council of Europe. The views expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the European Union or the Council of Europe.
Funding source: European Heritage Days, a Joint Project between the European Union and the Council of Europe. European Heritage Days | European Heritage Days
Duration: 2024-2025
Relative links: Discover the 8 European Heritage Days Stories awarded grants in 2024
