In May, a conference titled 'The Bathhouse in the Cultural Space of Latvia: Heritage, Opportunities, and Challenges' will take place at the Latvian Academy of Sciences, local Association of Bathhouses and SPAs reported.
The event will discuss bathhouse traditions and their modern interpretations. The association emphasizes that the acceptance of these procedures in Latvia is alive and widely practiced; however, with the growing popularity, the question arises whether its essence is preserved and whether the tradition is gradually 'leaking' into the processes of globalization.
During the event, a discussion will be led by the chair of the Committee on Intangible Cultural Heritage, folklorist and philosopher Mara Mellāna.
The scientific assembly will include leading researcher Rita Zara from the Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the University of Latvia, leading researcher Ieva Vitola from the Institute of Culture and Art of the Latvian Academy of Culture, healthcare specialist Ivita Pičukane, founder of the Bath Museum Theodor Karlson, as well as bath attendant and researcher of Latvian folk traditions Olīca Purina.
By the way, since 2025, bathhouse traditions have been included in the list of intangible cultural heritage of Latvia.
Leave a comment