Schwalmstadt is fighting for space in the intangible cultural heritage!

Schwalmstadt is fighting for space in the intangible cultural heritage!

Schwalmstadt presented itself in festive splendor in September 2025 when the city celebrated the 485th anniversary of its confirmation tradition in Ziegenhain. A remarkable occasion that is associated with an important step into the future. The support association has submitted an application to include the confirmation practice in the register of intangible cultural heritage at the Hessian Ministry of Science. The crucial deadline for the application was October 31, 2025. HNA reports.

The application is part of a comprehensive overall concept that aims to promote education, participation, research, urban development and tourism. A binding annual calendar with thematic weekends should be created in order to keep the knowledge of the history of confirmation alive. Visitor tours of the water fortress are being planned, as are various educational formats for young people, families, clubs and guests.

Collaboration and projects

The chairman of the support association, Dean Christian Wachter, and idea generator Gerhard Reidt are the driving forces behind this initiative. A wide range of support is mobilized through close cooperation with clubs, citizens, the Ziegenhain Fortress working group, the Schwalm Museum and the Rotkäppchenland tourist region. A highlight will be the “History Told” project, in which historical figures will tell stories on site, which will be available in multiple languages ​​and available at any time.

Another component of the overall concept is the implementation of the “12 arrows – confirmation worldwide” concept, which is intended to enable international comparisons of confirmation practice. Country-specific dossiers and tasks are being planned for teaching, which will enrich the teaching material.

A look at other cultural assets

While Schwalmstadt preserves and promotes its own traditions, Hesse has recently added another cultural treasure to its list: Schwalm whitework. This technique, which developed in the early 19th century, was recently officially added to the Federal Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This award was announced by Timon Gremmels, the Hessian Minister of Art and Culture, and the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media, Claudia Roth. Hessen.de provided information about this.

Schwalm whitework, which impresses with its creative and technical skills, strengthens Hesse’s position in the area of ​​intangible cultural heritage. There are now three entries with a Hessian connection, including apple wine culture and Hessian scratch plaster. Preserving such traditions is not only a tribute to the past, but also an opportunity to preserve cultural memory for future generations.

In summary, Schwalmstadt has not only set an example for the preservation of the confirmation tradition with its application, but also shows how important cultural preservation is in the region. The combination of centuries-old traditions and new impulses from the community gives hope for a colorful cultural spring, which will be further enriched by many planned events, such as the “Festival like Ziegenhain” festival week in 2026 and the fortress anniversary in 2029.