Cultural Heritage in the Region of Eastern Slovakia

Abstract

This chapter examines the diverse relationships between cultural heritage and traditional food and agriculture products in the east part of Slovakia (Košice and Prešov region). In different regional contexts, heritage politics are encouraging the revitalization and the promotion of traditional food products with different aims, such as cultural recognition and market exploitation. We explore the multiple forms of cultural heritage that the region has occasioned, such as regional food, other agricultural products, and breeds of animals farm-raised in this region. In the nineteenth century here, there was extensive agriculture and animal production. Local food production significantly adds to food diversification by originating raw materials and specific processing conditions, which both contribute to food quality characteristics, including enhancement of a wide range of sensory properties. An important area of the eastern part of Slovakia is the Tokaj wine region. In Slovak Tokaj, traditional grape varieties are grown and produce specific wines typical of the area. The benefits of local food and agriculture products are highlighted in this research, assuming traceability of origins and relevant veterinary control.