Living Cultural Heritage
Farm names
In Lower Lusatia, particularly in Sorbian/Wendish communities, farm names are traditional names for agricultural properties or farmsteads. These names aren’t only to identify properties but also reflect historical, genealogical and cultural aspects. Farm names were often passed down through generations and were closely linked to family histories.
Due to emigration or an aging population in rural areas, traditional farm names are being forgotten. Furthermore, farm names are losing significance due to changes in agriculture and the loss of small family farms.
With the decline of the Sorbian language, understanding and appreciation for traditional farm names is also dwindling. To counteract this, local initiatives are recording and archiving farm names in order to preserve cultural heritage.
