Tereré as Cultural Heritage – Intangible Treasure of UNESCO

🌿 Introduction

Tereré is more than just a drink – it is a ritual, a form of communication, and an expression of identity. That is why in 2020, UNESCO included tereré in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition affirms the importance of tereré not only for Paraguay but for the entire world as a symbol of tradition, community, and harmony with nature.

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🧉 What Is Intangible Cultural Heritage?

According to UNESCO, intangible cultural heritage includes living traditions – songs, dances, customs, rituals, and knowledge passed down through generations.
Tereré belongs in this category because it:

• is a living ritual, practiced daily;

• carries traditional knowledge about herbs (Pohã Ñana) and their uses;

• symbolizes community and equality through the circle and the cup.

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🌱 “Pohã Ñana” – Herbs as Part of the Culture

UNESCO inscribed tereré under the title:
“Practices and traditional knowledge of Tereré in the culture of Pohã Ñana, Guaraní ancestral drink in Paraguay.”

This emphasizes the link between the drink and the rich knowledge of herbs added to it – mint, boldo, chamomile, rosemary, and many more. They turn tereré into a natural pharmacy, preserved through generations.

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🤝 Social Significance

• Tereré brings people together in a circle – regardless of age, gender, or social status.

• The cup is passed from hand to hand, symbolizing trust and equality.

• This simple gesture strengthens community and keeps alive the spirit of the Guaraní.

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🌍 Global Recognition

The inclusion of tereré in UNESCO’s list is recognition of:

• the unique culture of Paraguay, shared with the world;

• the living tradition, still practiced daily;

• the importance of nature, interwoven in the drinking ritual.

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✨ Conclusion

Tereré is at once a drink, a ritual, and a cultural code. Through UNESCO’s decision, it is now acknowledged as a treasure of humanity – intangible heritage that preserves ancestral wisdom and builds a bridge between past and present.

📖 Source: UNESCO – Practices and traditional knowledge of Tereré in the culture of Pohã Ñana