Armenia has joined the World Region of Gastronomy platform as a candidate for the 2028 award, highlighting the country’s commitment to preserving gastronomic cultural heritage, promoting sustainable territorial development, and strengthening community-based economic resilience.
Armenia is the first country from the Caucasus region to apply for this international recognition, which is coordinated by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT). By joining the platform, Armenia becomes part of a global network of regions that view food and gastronomy as powerful drivers of identity formation, social cohesion, education, and responsible tourism.
As a candidate for the “World Region of Gastronomy 2028” title, Armenia has pledged to cooperate with other member regions to promote sustainable food systems, reinforce local value chains, support food education and research, empower youth and creative industries, and position gastronomy as a tool for intercultural dialogue and inclusive development.
Armenia’s candidacy underscores a culinary heritage shaped by millennia of agricultural knowledge, diverse landscapes, and deeply rooted food traditions. From mountainous terroirs and wild ingredients to bread-baking culture, preservation techniques, hospitality rituals, and festive cuisine, Armenian gastronomy embodies a strong connection between land, culture, and community. These food traditions continue to play a vital role in rural livelihoods, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and the preservation of local identity.
The candidacy is backed by a broad and collaborative network of stakeholders, bringing together expertise from environmental initiatives, local governance, tourism, education, and hospitality sectors.
By joining the World Region of Gastronomy platform, Armenia presents a forward-looking vision that views gastronomy not only as heritage but also as a living system capable of addressing contemporary challenges related to sustainability, education, and territorial cohesion. The 2028 candidacy provides an international stage to showcase Armenia’s rich food culture to the world.
