PH
Brussels has a distinctive puppet tradition using rod marionettes. The puppets are controlled with rods rather than being operated like ordinary hand puppets. Performances are connected to the city's historical popular theater culture and have been passed down through generations.
The tradition combines puppetry, storytelling, characters, music, and performance. It remains a recognizable part of Brussels' cultural heritage rather than simply being a museum display.
UNESCO included Brussels' rod marionette tradition among its 2025 intangible heritage inscriptions. It shows how an old theatrical form can survive alongside modern entertainment.
© UNESCO