Gandoura
It is a long dress in satin or velvet, embroidered with motifs inspired by nature, whether floral or animal, using techniques such as gold thread (majboud), fetla, tell or decorative embroidery.
Its accessories include a conical headdress embroidered with golden threads or decorated with ornaments, a Djabin tiara or a chain with a medallion, a Chechia Soltani and the Khit Rouh. The set is enriched with refined pearl or amber earrings (Sekhab), as well as various aromatic necklaces. The neck is decorated with the Mokhbel, a pearl, silver or gold necklace. The waist is highlighted by a gold or silver belt, called Mahzama, while the arms are decorated with bracelets and the legs with the Khalkhal. These accessories are usually made of pure gold or silver.
In December 2024, during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, capital of Paraguay, the festive female costume of the Algerian Grand Est was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This recognition celebrates this important cultural achievement and constitutes global recognition of the historical and artistic value of traditional Algerian female costume.
Its accessories include a conical headdress embroidered with golden threads or decorated with ornaments, a Djabin tiara or a chain with a medallion, a Chechia Soltani and the Khit Rouh. The set is enriched with refined pearl or amber earrings (Sekhab), as well as various aromatic necklaces. The neck is decorated with the Mokhbel, a pearl, silver or gold necklace. The waist is highlighted by a gold or silver belt, called Mahzama, while the arms are decorated with bracelets and the legs with the Khalkhal. These accessories are usually made of pure gold or silver.
In December 2024, during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, capital of Paraguay, the festive female costume of the Algerian Grand Est was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This recognition celebrates this important cultural achievement and constitutes global recognition of the historical and artistic value of traditional Algerian female costume.