The file was submitted a year ago by the supervisory authority to UNESCO for the registration of the file "Female ceremonial costume in the Great East of Algeria: knowledge and know-how associated with the making and adornment of the gandoura and the melehfa" on the representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. According to UNESCO, "the gandoura and the melehfa are traditional outfits worn by women in the Great East of Algeria on the occasion of celebrations such as weddings, ceremonies and national and religious festivities," we read on its official website. And to add that "the exhibition of these costumes on these occasions consolidates, reaffirms and strengthens social ties and cultivates a feeling of solidarity between individuals and communities." The same source states that "the knowledge and skills related to weaving are practiced in families and clothing workshops," "where they contribute to promoting sustainable development through crafts and encourage human creativity," it added. It should be recalled that the gandoura is a long, flared dress made of satin or velvet, embroidered with floral and animal motifs using techniques such as gold thread and beading. Accessories include a belt around the waist and a conical headdress embroidered with gold thread or decorated with coins, a tiara or a chain with medallions. As for the melehfa, the latter is a wide, draped garment, supported on the shoulders by two silver brooches and at the waist by a long belt made of dyed wool. The excess fabric is folded over the chest and towards the back. It is completed by a turban or scarf decorated with pendants or a tiara.

El Moudjahid