Ordinance nº 196/2010, published on April 9, 2010, establishes a procedure for the inventorying of intangible cultural heritage in Portugal, as part of a broader policy for its protection and enhancement. This initiative is grounded in the principles set forth by Decree-Law nº 139/2009, which emphasises the importance of systematic identification, study, and documentation of cultural expressions that require urgent safeguarding.
The Ordinance outlines the necessary forms for requesting the inventorying of intangible cultural heritage, including a detailed inventory sheet that covers various aspects such as identification, characterisation, transmission context, and associated rights. It mandates the inclusion of documentation like bibliographies, oral sources, and audiovisual materials to support the inventory process.
Furthermore, the Ordinance highlights the significance of community involvement in the inventorying process, ensuring that local knowledge and practices are recognised and preserved. The document also stipulates that the elements related to the inventorying procedure will be made available on the official website of the Institute of Museums and Conservation, promoting transparency and accessibility.
Overall, Ordinance nº 196/2010 represents a significant step towards the systematic safeguarding of Portugal’s intangible cultural heritage.
