Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing
Flag of MKFlag of TurkeyRepresentative ListInscribed 2024

Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage element classified as representative list, inscribed in 2024, practiced in MK, Turkey.

Overview

The traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) is a traditional woodwind instrument that is made and performed across the area that includes the Republic of North Macedonia, and the Eastern Black Sea and Thrace regions of Türkiye. In North Macedonia, it consists of four parts: a melody pipe, a drone pipe, a blowing pipe and an air reservoir. In Türkiye, it consists of a melody pipe, a blowing pipe and a body. In both countries, boxwood is used to make the melody pipe. The body is made from goat or sheep skin which is soaked in a mixture of water, corn flour, yoghurt and salt for several days. It is then inflated and hung to dry. Once dry, the parts and pipes are attached. The bagpipe is associated with folk music and is played in events such as weddings and festivals. The related knowledge and skills are transmitted informally, within families and music groups and through apprenticeships. The practice is also transmitted through cultural associations, seminars and workshops, and in music conservatories and educational institutions. The bagpipe has been uniting communities in social activities for centuries. A symbol of cultural identity, it is a key part of many other traditions and customs, including harvesting and transhumance practices. It thus reinforces a sense of belonging while strengthening social ties, solidarity and cooperation.

Cultural Significance

Countries & Communities

Flag of MKMK
Flag of TurkeyTurkey

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of heritage is Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing?

Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing is classified as representative list by UNESCO.

Which countries practice Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing?

Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing is practiced in MK, Turkey.

When was Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing inscribed by UNESCO?

Traditional bagpipe (Gayda/Tulum) making and performing was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024.

Data Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage · Last updated: April 2026

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