The Irish sport of hurling -- often described as "the fastest game on grass" -- was granted UNESCO special status on Thursday, adding it to the register of "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity".
"I am delighted that hurling has achieved international recognition," Irish Culture Minister Josepha Madigan said.
"Hurling is a key element of Irish culture. For centuries, hurling has been an important part of the Irish identity, with men and women passing on this living tradition to each rising generation."
"It reaffirms the fact that Hurling is more than just a sport. It is a national treasure; an ancient tradition that connects us to our Celtic past and a part of our DNA."