Application for Intangible Cultural Heritage

The first plans to recognize the valuable heritage of stilt walking in Merchtem date back to 2009. During preparations for the very first edition of “Merchtem op Stelten” that year, the stilt walking fiche was also completed for the website www.traditie.be. You can still view this fiche at histories.be.

The cultural significance of traditions and customs is protected both regionally and internationally. In Flanders, the government is responsible for culture and works with the Flanders Inventory. Inclusion in this inventory not only acknowledges the cultural heritage as valuable but also obliges active documentation, preservation, and passing it on to future generations. It is therefore both a recognition and a responsibility. The dossier must also be updated annually.

The current process started after an initial mention in the local press, including on Goeiedag, and began in February 2017 with consultations between the association, the municipality, and LECA (the Rural Expertise Centre for Everyday Culture). Together they formed a heritage working group to prepare the application dossier, in consultation with various members and stakeholders.