| Genre | Folk dance |
|---|---|
| Origin | Dalmatian Hinterland, Croatia |
| Nijemo Kolo, silent circle dance of the Dalmatian hinterland | |
|---|---|
| Country | Croatia |
| Reference | 00359 |
| Region | Europe and North America |
| Inscription history | |
| Inscription | 2011 (6th session) |
| List | Representative |
Nijemo kolo (pronounced[nijêːmokôlo]) is a silentdance originating from theDalmatian hinterland in southernCroatia. In 2011 it was inscribed on theUNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists.[1]
Nijemo kolo is performed by a group forming a closed circle with the men leading their female partners in quick steps, which are often vigorous and daunting.[2] The most noticeable aspect of the dance is that it performed entirely without music.
Today, Nijemo kolo continues to be performed by local village groups and can be seen in festivals, competitions, fairs, church celebrations, and weddings.[2]