Amelia Papazissu, recognised as a 'Living Human Treasure,' was awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of the Municipality of Buzau on Thursday for her outstanding achievements and contribution to the city's prestige both in Romania and abroad.

'For the newly established circle, she created a collection of handkerchiefs, towels, tablecloths and traditional costumes. She is highly skilled in weaving on the vertical loom, having developed over time her own distinctive style inspired by the specific elements of textiles from the Slanic Valley area. In 2013, she received the honorary title of 'Living Human Treasure,' awarded under the auspices of UNESCO. A folk artisan for more than three decades and a tireless teacher devoted to passing on the crafts of weaving and embroidery to future generations, Amelia Papazissu received this distinction reserved for the most valuable guardians and continuers of authentic traditions. She is regarded as one of Buzau's best-known folk creators and one of the representative figures of Romanian folk art,' said Buzau Deputy Mayor Oana Gheorghiu during the meeting of the Municipal Local Council.

In this context, the folk artist received an accolade and a bouquet of flowers from the town hall leadership.

'For me, this title is an honour and a great joy because I am being recognised at home. When I say at home, I mean family and you are part of the family of those who support tradition. Through your decision, I believe folk art is being recognised. For 45 years, together with my husband, we have promoted Romanian traditions, especially authentic Romanian traditions. You honour me with this distinction,' Amelia Papazissu told the councillors.

Photo: Florin Zafiu/AGERPRES

Known for her goat-hair weaving technique, she has received several distinctions over the years, including the 'Cultural Merit' order awarded in 2015 by the Romanian Presidency.

The folk artist's collection includes more than 100 items, many of them heritage pieces, among them the traditional costume worn by Moglan Gheorghe, a local resident from the commune of Beceni who was chosen to take part in the events marking the Great Union on 1 December 1918 in Alba Iulia.

Amelia Papazissu was born on 20 May 1954 in the locality of Vintila Voda, Buzau County. She graduated from secondary school in Moinesti and from the theoretical high school in Comanesti in 1975, both in Bacau County. She later attended the Technical School for Textile Clothing Design in Focsani and completed the psycho-pedagogical module at Transilvania University of Brasov. In her early career, she worked as a substitute teacher for Biology and Chemistry in the locality of Coca-Antimiresti in the commune of Vintila Voda and in Beceni, where she began working as an instructor at the Beceni Children's Club, coordinating embroidery and weaving courses. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Florin Zafiu; EN - writing by: Adina Panaitescu)