Wirt Kultural Intanġibbli tal-UNESCO: Gusle (Serbja)

Singing to the accompaniment of the gusle — a simple single-string instrument — is an ancient performance tradition centred primarily on heroic epics. Practised for centuries, it serves both as a form of historical memory and as an expression of cultural identity. Performances involve a dynamic interaction between performer and audience and rely heavily on the skill and creativity of the soloist, known as a guslar. The guslar’s ability to dramatise poetic narratives through voice, gesture and presence is central to a compelling performance.

The repertoire largely consists of songs about mythical and historical heroes, events from the legendary past, and episodes from both ancient and more recent history, alongside occasional ballads and humorous pieces. Performances take place in a variety of settings, including local gatherings, festivals and commemorative events.

Spanning a wide range of themes, these songs reflect the values and collective memory of the communities that sustain them,…