The development and cultural significance of diplomatic etiquette and protocol in Europe

The paper studies the historical and cultural foundations of the development of diplomatic etiquette and protocol in Europe. The author considers diplomatic etiquette as an important component of European civilization's cultural heritage. At the same time it is noted, that the basics of diplomatic protocol were formed under the influence of national cultures of European peoples. The ceremonial norms have formed centuries-old customary traditions and they have established themselves in practice of diplomatic relations between states, being today an important component of European diplomacy.