Dry stone walling*

*Inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the UNESCO

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The construction of stable, durable walls from natural stones without the use of mortar, cement or adhesives is a centuries-old tradition. Dry stone walls form a key part of Switzerland's cultural landscape, and are important examples of rural construction practices and craftsmanship. They also provide valuable living space to plants and animals, thereby promoting biodiversity. Thanks to a love of their beautiful forms and the knowledge of the numerous functions of dry stone walls, a range of organisations and craftsmen and women campaign for the preservation and promotion of this ancient construction technique. By passing on their technical expertise, they prevent ancient dry stone walls from falling into disrepair. New walls are constructed during dry stone walling courses and civil service deployments, and dry stone walls are also becoming increasingly popular as garden features. Dry stone walls have been the subject of increasing attention over recent years. Their technical, aesthetic and environmental significance has now been recognised.