Falconry, the ancient art of training and hunting with birds of prey, isn’t just a sport or a tradition—it’s a bridge between humans and nature that has lasted for centuries. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, falconry in Italy offers a fascinating glimpse into history, culture, and the enduring bond between man and bird.

Whether you’re watching a master falconer work with a peregrine falcon, or you’re lucky enough to try a guided falconry experience yourself, this cultural gem is more than just entertainment—it’s a living heritage.

The UNESCO Recognition of Falconry

In 2010, UNESCO inscribed falconry on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. While often people associate UNESCO with monuments and physical UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy like Rome’s Colosseum or Florence’s historic center, falconry stands out as a living tradition.

This recognition places falconry alongside centuries-old festivals, culinary practices, and artisanal crafts, showing that heritage is not only built in stone but also lived through culture. It highlights Italy’s contribution to keeping falconry alive among the many UNESCO sites in Italy.

History of Falconry in Italy

From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance

Falconry in Italy dates back to the early Middle Ages, when noble courts considered it a prestigious pastime. In Renaissance Italy, falconry became a symbol of status, often depicted in art and literature. Dukes, princes, and even popes participated, turning falconry into an integral part of courtly life.

The Role of the Italian Landscape

Italy’s varied landscapes—mountains, plains, and coastal areas—made it a perfect environment for falconry to thrive. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged cliffs of Abruzzo, falconers relied on local geography for training their birds of prey.

Experiencing Falconry Today

In modern Italy, falconry is not just an echo of the past. Across the country, schools, parks, and cultural associations (often supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture) offer authentic falconry experiences to travelers who want to witness this tradition firsthand.

What a Falconry Experience Includes

• Learning about different species of raptors, from falcons to hawks and eagles.

• Watching professional falconers demonstrate the precision of their birds.

• Participating in guided sessions where you can hold and fly a bird under expert supervision.

These encounters are immersive and respectful, ensuring that the welfare of the birds comes first.

Where to Try Falconry in Italy

• Tuscany: Many estates near Siena and Florence offer half-day falconry sessions.

• Abruzzo: Known for its wild landscapes, Abruzzo hosts falconry schools that tie tradition to conservation.

• Emilia-Romagna: Cultural festivals often feature falconry shows, bringing history to life.

Falconry and Conservation

Today’s Italian falconers play an important role in protecting raptors and preserving biodiversity. Associations such as LIPU – Italian League for the Protection of Birds highlight the connection between falconry and bird conservation.

By maintaining ancient practices, falconers contribute to environmental education and species protection. The falconry community emphasizes sustainability, linking heritage to modern environmental values.

This balance between tradition and ecology is one reason why UNESCO acknowledged falconry as more than an ancient sport—it is a cultural practice rooted in responsibility.

Not Everyone Knows

• In the medieval city of Urbino, falconry was so prestigious that noble families commissioned paintings of themselves with falcons perched on their arms.

• Some Italian falconers train owls alongside falcons, even though owls are nocturnal hunters and less commonly used.

• Falconry vocabulary in Italy influenced local dialects: terms like “astore” (goshawk) and “sparviere” (sparrowhawk) are still part of everyday speech.

• Certain Italian monasteries in the Middle Ages used falconry not just for hunting but also as a meditative practice, connecting monks with the natural world.

Why Falconry Is Part of Italy UNESCO Heritage

Falconry’s inclusion among the intangible treasures of humanity shows that Italy UNESCO World Heritage Site status is not limited to cathedrals or archaeological ruins. Instead, it celebrates living traditions that continue to evolve.

When travelers think about UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy, they often picture Venice, Pisa, or the Dolomites. Yet falconry reminds us that culture is alive—it breathes, adapts, and invites participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is falconry really part of UNESCO in Italy?

Yes. Falconry is listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and Italy is one of the countries that actively practices and safeguards this tradition.

Can tourists try a falconry experience in Italy?

Absolutely. Many falconry schools and cultural associations, often promoted by the Italian Ministry of Culture, offer hands-on sessions where visitors can learn and even handle birds under supervision.

How old is falconry in Italy?

Falconry in Italy dates back over a thousand years, flourishing during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Is falconry harmful to the birds?

No. Ethical falconry prioritizes the well-being of the birds. Italian falconers are trained professionals who care deeply for their raptors, with conservation guidance from groups like LIPU.

Where are the best places to see falconry in Italy?

Tuscany, Abruzzo, and Emilia-Romagna are some of the best regions, but falconry shows also appear in medieval festivals throughout the country.