October 22, 2024, marked a milestone for Berlin’s techno scene. At the opulent Baroque Biebrich Palace in Wiesbaden, “Technoculture in Berlin” was officially recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Germany. The ceremonial handover of the certificate was a historic moment for cultural creators and everyone who has shaped this scene over the decades.

As the applicant, we at rave the planet gGmbH were represented by a five-member delegation: Dr. Motte, Ellen Dosch-Roeingh, Timm Zeiss, Felicitas Settili, and Yad Attar. UNESCO’s recognition of Berlin’s technoculture is not only a tribute to this cultural form but also a clear statement: Techno is more than just music and wild parties—it’s an essential part of Berlin’s identity.

Call to Action: Techno Must Stay in the Heart of Berlin!

Amid the celebrations, it was vital to draw attention to the threats facing Berlin’s technoculture, such as gentrification and the planned expansion of the A100 motorway. During a press briefing before the event, Ellen Dosch-Roeingh urged policymakers to actively protect technoculture. Her passionate appeal: “Without political support and adequate alternative spaces, a unique part of Berlin’s culture could be lost”. She emphasized that this cultural form must not be pushed to the outskirts but must remain “in the heart of Berlin”.

Emotional Moments and Powerful Messages

The ceremony was opened by Timon Gremmels, Hessian Minister of Science and Art and Chair of the Conference of Ministers of Culture. He honored the diversity of newly recognized cultural forms while highlighting their shared values. “Being intangible cultural heritage means being engaged and taking responsibility for oneself and others, preserving traditions or creating new ones”, he stated.

A highlight of the day was a panel discussion featuring Dr. Marlen Meißner from the German UNESCO Commission and Antje Reppe from the Saxony Intangible Heritage Advisory Office. The conversation focused on strengthening social cohesion and the unifying power of intangible cultural heritage. It became clear that these cultures bring people together across age and social status and are often sustained by dedicated volunteers.

Prof. Dr. Christoph Wulf, Vice President of the German UNESCO Commission and Chair of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee, delivered a moving speech emphasizing the peaceful and community-building effects of intangible cultural heritage. He celebrated the joy that accompanies the practice of these traditions.

Official Certificate Handover and Festivities

The emotional highlight of the day was the formal handover of certificates. Prof. Dr. Wulf, Minister Gremmels, and Dr. Meißner presented the official recognition certificates to six honorees. Addressing the gathered audience, Ellen Dosch-Roeingh reiterated her urgent call to action. Dr. Motte reflected on the history of the Berlin Love Parade, connecting it to today’s technoculture.

Living Cultures: Tradition Meets Modernity

To conclude the event, guests were treated to a unique “Clash of Cultures”. The evening began with a stunning live performance by the Kirchseeon Perchten, who, in traditional costumes, performed their “Dance of the Wooden Men.”

Following this, everyone raised a glass to intangible cultural heritage—with Viez, a traditional fruit wine, whose production knowledge was also newly added to the UNESCO list. Dr. Motte provided the musical finale, delivering a DJ set upon UNESCO’s request in the palace’s grand rotunda. Guests danced to techno beneath glittering chandeliers, stucco, and frescoes—a memorable moment symbolizing the fusion of tradition and modernity.

Tulips for Berlin

Traditionally, flowers are presented during the certificate handover. This year, UNESCO opted for tulip bulbs, considering the long journeys many recipients faced.

Our tulip bulbs made it back to Berlin in perfect condition. We’re now working with cultural creators to find the ideal location in Berlin to plant these tulips.

Additionally, we plan to display the UNESCO certificate in a public space—accessible and open to everyone, just like Berlin’s technoculture.