Arts and literature
The Republic of the Congo has a rich literary tradition, with authors of international standing. Painting, sculpture and craftwork bear witness to a living artistic heritage, passed from one generation to the next.
Music and dance
Congolese music, from rumba to contemporary sounds, reaches far beyond the national borders. Les Bantous de la Capitale, Pamelo Mounk'a, Franklin Boukaka, Zao and Youlou Mabiala are among the figures who carried it. Dance holds a central place in social life and in traditional ceremonies.
Congolese rumba was inscribed in 2021 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, jointly for the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Traditions and heritage
Oral traditions, initiation rites and ceremonial masks make up an intangible heritage of great richness. Each ethnic group contributes to the cultural diversity of the country.
Food
Congolese cooking is known for its varied flavours and local ingredients: cassava, freshwater fish, game and tropical fruit. Saka-saka, poulet moambé and liboke are among its most emblematic dishes.