UNESCO recognises the skills of Parisian roofers and ornamentalists
On December, 4th 2024, UNESCO included the skills of Parisian roofers and ornamentalists on the indicative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition highlights a craft combining tradition and creativity that has been essential to the identity of Parisian roofs since the XIXᵉ century.
On December, 4th 2024, at its session in Asunción (Paraguay), UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed "The skills of Parisian roofers and ornamentalists ’ on the indicative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
VMZINC®, a historic partner in this initiative, joins the community of roofers and ornamentalists in enjoying this international recognition. This success is a culmination of seven years of efforts led by the GCCP (Groupement des entreprises de couverture plomberie chauffage) and supported by committed partners, including VMZINC, Delphine Bürkli, Mayor of the 9ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, and other industrial players in the sector.
Unique expertise recognised all over the world
This listing enhances the value of art and traditional crafts, where technical excellence meets creativity. Since the XIXᵉ century, roofers and ornamentalists have been shaping Parisian roofs using emblematic materials such as zinc, slate, lead, tiles and copper. They also adom these structures with decorative elements such as dormers, stamped designs and finials, perpetuating a know-how handed down from generation to generation.
Professions that look to the future
In addition to their heritage dimension, these professions play a key role in contemporary issues, particularly by helping to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. Thermal insulation and air flow management are just some of the innovations that make these professions part of a sustainable approach.
However, the industry is facing a labour shortage. Every morning, there is a shortage of nearly 500 young roofers on the roofs of Paris, and thousands more throughout France. This recognition by UNESCO could provide the impetus needed to inspire new vocations and encourage the younger generations to join these professions of excellence.
A collective victory
This international recognition is above all a collective victory. VMZINC would like to warmly thank its partners, employees and supporters for their ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting these skills.
Together, let us continue to celebrate and pass on this art of building, a symbol of the balance between tradition and modernity.
Click here for the GCCP's official press release