
Urgent Safeguarding ListInscribed 2017Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage element classified as urgent safeguarding list, inscribed in 2017, practiced in Morocco.
Overview
Taskiwin is a martial dance specific to the western High Atlas mountain range in Central Morocco. The dance gets its name from the richly decorated horn each dancer carries – the Tiskt – and involves the art of shaking one’s shoulders to the rhythm of tambourines and flutes. The practice fosters social cohesion and harmony and provides a key means of socialization for young people. Transmission to young generations mainly occurs informally through direct learning. Due to several factors, however, the dance is now limited to a small number of villages and is at risk of disappearing. Globalization has driven it closer to oblivion, as reflected by young people’s increasing disdain for traditional heritage in favour of modern artistic practices. The dance is no longer practised by several communities and the remaining enthusiasts and bearers cannot find aspirants to whom they can transmit their know-how. Craftsmanship relating to the instruments and accessories is also in decline. Nonetheless, the last two decades have seen an increased collective awareness of the need to ensure the viability of Taskiwin among some communities. To this end, the first dedicated association in the region was created in 1993, an initiative followed by several other villages, and several local associations are now being created.
Cultural Significance
Countries & Communities
MoroccoFrequently Asked Questions
What type of heritage is Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas?
Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas is classified as urgent safeguarding list by UNESCO.
Which countries practice Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas?
Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas is practiced in Morocco.
When was Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas inscribed by UNESCO?
Taskiwin, martial dance of the western High Atlas was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2017.
Data Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage · Last updated: April 2026
Related
HeritageHorse and camel ArdhahHeritageAl Ahalla, a living performing art in the United Arab EmiratesHeritageCherry festival in SefrouHeritageTraditional Ahlat stoneworkHeritageKoshary, daily life dish and practices associated with itHeritageMargilan Crafts Development Centre, safeguarding of the atlas and adras making…