Snapshots from Yesterday: Safeguarding the Culinary Culture of Guanacaste

Abstract

Summary: This article documents the cultural and culinary traditions of Guanacaste province, through the childhood memory of a person native to the region. Using an interview to Dr. Vallejos as the primary source of information, the article describes the cultural practices, domestic customs, and culinary traditions of Santa Cruz, as she learned them from her grandmother and others in her family and her community. The research conforms to the values and guidelines outlined by UNESCO in the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, which appears in traditions and oral expressions; social uses, rituals and festive acts; knowledge related to nature and the universe; and traditional artisan techniques. The culinary arts are part of our cultural heritage and this article contributes to its documentation, revalorization, and safeguarding.