Traditional sweets were showcased in Elche as part of the “Knowledge and Flavours” exhibition Credit: Ayuntamiento de Elche
Elche hosted its “Knowledge and Flavours” exhibition this week, an initiative designed to recover and celebrate traditional pastry recipes passed down through generations, with a strong focus on the role of older residents in preserving local heritage.
Organised by the city council’s Department of Children, Family and Seniors, the event brought together participants aged over 60, who presented homemade sweets alongside the stories and techniques behind each recipe. The exhibition took place at the Congress Centre, creating a space where gastronomy and memory came together.
The initiative aimed not only to highlight Elche’s culinary traditions but also to recognise older generations as key transmitters of culture. Participants shared personal experiences linked to their recipes, turning the event into both a cultural and emotional exchange.
Preserving tradition through food
During the exhibition, visitors were able to explore a variety of traditional pastries, many of which are rarely found in modern bakeries. Each dish reflected family traditions, local ingredients and techniques that have been preserved over decades.
Organisers emphasised that the goal was to keep these recipes alive by encouraging their transmission to younger generations, ensuring that local identity continues to be reflected in everyday food culture.
Promoting active ageing and community ties
Beyond its culinary focus, the event also promoted active ageing by encouraging participation and social interaction among older residents. By giving them a central role, the exhibition created a platform for engagement while strengthening community connections.
Local officials highlighted that initiatives like this help build intergenerational links, offering opportunities for younger audiences to connect with traditions that might otherwise be lost over time.
A cultural experience beyond gastronomy
The exhibition formed part of a broader effort in Elche to promote cultural activities that combine heritage, community and education. By blending storytelling with food, the event offered more than a simple display of sweets, becoming a celebration of shared identity and collective memory.
With strong participation and a positive response, the “Knowledge and Flavours” exhibition reinforced the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage while creating meaningful spaces for community interaction.
