On the morning of September 12, 2024, in Cat Tuong commune, Phu Cat district, Binh Dinh province, the ceremony to receive the certificate recognizing Phu Gia horse-riding conical hat making as a national intangible cultural heritage took place in a solemn and proud atmosphere. This is an important milestone, affirming the unique cultural value of a traditional craft village that has existed for centuries.
Local people, from seasoned artisans to younger generations, gathered early to witness this historic moment. Ms. Ha Thi Lo, an artisan who has practiced the craft since she was 10 years old, emotionally shared her joy and pride at the national recognition of her traditional craft. For her, it is not only an honor but also a motivation to pass on the craft to the next generation and preserve the efforts of her ancestors.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Lam Hai Giang, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Binh Dinh province, emphasized that the Phu Gia horse-riding hat has long been a symbol of strength and majesty, closely associated with the history and culture of this martial arts land. This type of hat is not simply a functional item but also a work of art, reflecting the spirit and identity of the people of Binh Dinh. In particular, with its exquisite patterns of dragons, unicorns, turtles, and phoenixes, each hat carries the meaning of power and status in the feudal era. Today, the value of these horse-riding hats has transcended borders, appearing in collections and becoming known to international tourists. 
The craft of making conical hats in Phu Gia requires meticulousness and skill through many stages, from selecting materials to finishing the product. Palm leaves, pineapple roots, and bamboo tubes are carefully selected and combined to create a strong and durable structure. A finished hat can last from 150 to 200 years, a testament to the unique craftsmanship and exquisite skill of the artisans.
The Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Cat District, Mr. Nguyen Van Hung, affirmed that this recognition is not only an honor but also a responsibility. To promote the value of traditional crafts, the district has developed projects to protect and develop craft villages and link heritage with community tourism . He also emphasized the need to support artisans in passing on their skills, producing and selling their products, while honoring their significant contributions to heritage preservation. 
The event also provides an opportunity to guide the long-term development of the craft village. Plans were put forward to promote the heritage to domestic and international tourists. The establishment of a product exhibition area, the organization of experiential activities, and the improvement of the craft village's infrastructure will create more appeal for cultural tourism in the locality.
The craft of making conical hats in Phu Gia, with its history spanning hundreds of years, is a precious heritage of Binh Dinh province and a source of pride in Vietnamese culture. Its inclusion in the national list of intangible cultural heritage affirms the unique value of the craft and opens up many opportunities for its preservation and development, ensuring that these quintessential cultural values continue to be transmitted and spread through future generations.
Hoang Anh-SEAP
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