UNESCO has recognised Parisian zinc roofers and ornamentalists, adding them to the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
On December 4th, 2024, in Asunción, Paraguay, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO added the ‘Know-how of Parisian zinc roofers and ornamentalists’ to the indicative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. VMZINC, a long-time partner in this UNESCO candidacy has expressed its joy and pride of the roofing and ornamentalist community.
After seven years of work, the GCCP – the syndicate of French companies in climate engineering, roofing, and plumbing leading the candidacy – supported by Delphine Bürkli, Mayor of Paris’ 9th arrondissement, and the support committee made up of VMZINC and 12 other industrial companies, have succeeded. The third candidacy has enabled the recognition of these heritage professions, which represent a unique know-how: the art of roofing with five principal materials – zinc (battened roofing), slate, lead, tile, and copper – decorating them with dormers, bull’s-eyes, friezes, or ridge finials.
This art, which originated in the 19th century, is passed down from generation to generation through roofing training centres in Paris and across France. The craft is also looking to the future, contributing to the fight against climate change through the installation of insulation and the implementation of efficient air circulation systems. It is hoped that the UNESCO recognition will raise awareness of the professions of zinc roofers and ornamentalists, as well as inspire a new generation of craftspeople within the industry.
Source: Architecture Today