The Azores Regional Government has begun preparatory work to seek recognition of the traditional knowledge and techniques behind São Jorge cheese as intangible cultural heritage—a process that could ultimately lead to a formal nomination to UNESCO.

According to a statement submitted to the Azorean Legislative Assembly in response to a request from Socialist Party lawmakers, the initiative focuses on the cultural value of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product and the centuries-old practices tied to its production.

Following the signing of a cooperation protocol aimed at registering “The Knowledge and Traditional Techniques of São Jorge PDO Cheese Production” in Portugal’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, authorities have already initiated institutional contacts with key stakeholders. These include scientific and academic institutions, producers, cultural organizations, and heritage agencies, all of which are expected to play a role in developing the application.

Officials say the early phase of the process is centered on establishing a rigorous methodological framework. This includes defining research standards, gathering and systematizing data, selecting credible sources, and conducting extensive fieldwork to document traditional practices.

A technical oversight structure is also being assembled. It will bring together representatives from participating institutions, as well as experts in intangible cultural heritage, academic research, and the dairy sector. The group will oversee research efforts and support the preparation of the documentation required for national registration.

The timeline for the candidacy remains undefined, reflecting the complexity and demanding nature of UNESCO recognition procedures. The process involves multiple interdependent stages, beginning with national inventory listing—a prerequisite for any future international nomination.

At this stage, efforts focus on collecting and organizing relevant information and ensuring that the application’s technical componentsmeet established standards. Only after these preparatory steps are completed can the formal submission to Portugal’s national heritage inventory move forward.

The Regional Government also outlined a series of safeguarding and promotion measures tied to the initiative. These include documenting traditional knowledge, engaging producers and local communities in the process, and promoting public awareness of the cultural significance of São Jorge cheese.

Additional efforts will focus on transmitting these practices to future generations through educational initiatives, public events, and cultural programming designed to preserve and promote this heritage.

The initiative marks a significant step in recognizing the cultural and historical importance of one of the Azores’ most iconic products. Beyond its economic value, the traditional production of São Jorge cheese remains a defining element of local identity—rooted in generations of craftsmanship and deeply embedded in the island’s cultural fabric.

In Diário dos Açores – Paulo Vivieros, director

Today, March 18th, is the DAY OF GIVING at Fresno State. Your support is very important to us. Here is the link. Please designate the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute as the recipient of your generous donation

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.