Italian cuisine, more than pizza, pasta, and wine, tells the story of a community in Guatemala

The recent inscription of Italian cuisine onto UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2025 marks a significant global acknowledgment of its profound cultural value. UNESCO specifically lauded the cuisine's artisanal preparation methods, its emphasis on community engagement, and the intimate relationship it fosters between people and food. This recognition underscores that Italian cooking is far more than just its famous dishes; it is a practice deeply rooted in respect for ingredients, the sharing of meals, and the transmission of culinary knowledge and memories across generations.

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It is a community activity that emphasizes the intimate relationship with food, respect for ingredients, and shared moments around the table

This heritage also champions sustainable practices, with many traditional recipes designed to minimize waste. Furthermore, it emphasizes the social role of food, highlighting how meals bring families and communities together, whether in everyday settings, schools, or during special celebrations. The sentiment is echoed by Italian officials, like Antonio Tajani, who noted the deep historical ties between Italy and Latin America, suggesting that the Italian diaspora has significantly shaped the cultural landscape of the region, including Guatemala.

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Millions of Italians, with their baggage of hopes, courage, and ingenuity, undertook the sea journey from the first half of the 19th century to offer their families a new life on the other side of the ocean. Today, almost 200 years after the start of that heroic epic, it is difficult to conceive of Latin America without Italy.

In Guatemala, the Accademia Italiana della Cucina, Delegazione di Città del Guatemala, is actively working to preserve and promote these traditions. They recently hosted an ecumenical dinner to celebrate the UNESCO designation, an event mirrored by Accademia delegations worldwide. Aldo Grazioso Bonetto, the delegate, explained the Accademia's role in identifying and certifying authentic Italian restaurants. Through a rigorous evaluation of recipes, ingredients, and presentation, these establishments receive a sticker as a mark of authenticity, renewed annually. This initiative not only safeguards the integrity of Italian culinary heritage but also provides a reliable guide for diners seeking genuine Italian experiences in Guatemala, reflecting a local commitment to upholding global cultural standards.

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This evening we celebrate the nomination of Italian cuisine as a world heritage. At this moment, all the delegations of the Italian academy, in different countries, are holding a similar dinner