Walser valley costumes gain cultural heritage status
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People in the Walser Valley, a region in Austria, continue a tradition of elaborate costumes dating back to the early 19th century.
The costumes vary between the Kleinwalsertal and Großwalsertal areas, with pleated skirts, embroidered undergarments, and beaded crowns typical in one valley, and detailed hand embroidery defining the style in the other. Women’s outfits can include up to 40 separate pieces. Communities wear these costumes for weddings, religious celebrations, funerals, dances, and official events.
Local clubs, farming organizations, and craftspeople preserve the knowledge of how to make, design, and care for the traditional clothing. This recognition joins other Vorarlberg cultural elements already on the list, including Montafon costumes and a three-tiered farming system.
