Get involved in conservation efforts
Culture Vannin and UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man are pleased to release a new pocket language guide, aimed to help the public access and understand more about our beautiful biosphere nation while learning some key Manx vocabulary.
The pocket guides were released to mark the opening of Museum of the Moon, an event made possible with support by Isle of Man Arts Council, and feature some beautiful celestial vocabulary alongside place name words, poetic Manx, plus seasons and calendar customs.
Each card has a QR code that can be scanned to hear words and phrases spoken by Ruth Keggin Gell, Culture Vannin’s Manx Language Development Officer, who worked alongside the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man team to create the cards.
Ruth said, “Our small pocket guides are immensely popular, and help the public enjoy Manx in a very simple, accessible way. We hope that these cards will spark curiosity, and help people realise that the Manx language, and its importance to intangible cultural heritage, is one of the reasons that the Isle of Man is a whole nation Biosphere.”
The Biosphere team said: “Culture and language are at the heart of every UNESCO Biosphere, shaping our identity and connecting us to the landscapes we call home. These guides celebrate our rich cultural heritage and unique language, both deeply woven into our Biosphere, and promoting these treasures ensures they thrive for future generations, strengthening our sense of place and belonging."
The Biosphere pocket guides are available to pick up at The Museum of the Moon, which takes place every day at the Cathedral Church of St. German (Cathedral Isle of Man) in Peel until Sunday 2nd March.
They are also available to pick up at Culture Vannin, and Thie Slieau Whallian, both of which are in St. John’s.
Posted up on 19th February 2025
