Regional Features of Baking and Decorating a Korovai

This article will discuss regional characteristics in the baking and decoration of korovai, Ukrainian ritual bread, baked for many years in different areas of Ukraine and an important symbol of cultural identity. The task herein is to systematize local ways of preparing and decorating korovai, so as to bring out their symbolic meaning and role in maintaining the national heritage. Its study became relevant due to increasing globalization that tends to erase specific regional traits; there arises a need for documentation of ethnocultural traditions. This novelty in scholarship arises from a thorough analysis of poorly researched discrepancies between Eastern and Western Ukraine, wherein connections among decorative elements, ingredients, and local cultural codes are determined. A comparative analysis based on five sources is used as a research methodology, ethnographic data being one of them. It has formed the history, nature and social factors of regional features of korovai. Thus, differences will affect not only decor but recipe too. Ritual practice was highlighted as an important factor in passing cultural heritage, which needs to be supported by educational initiatives and traditions popularization. The article will be useful for ethnographers, cultural scientists, historians, cooks, and specialists in the field of preserving intangible cultural heritage about regional traditions of Ukraine.