Lithuanian Tatars and the Muslim Community Host Slovak Visitors

Vilnius, Lithuania: September 2024

In September 2024, an engaging cultural exchange took place in Lithuania with visitors from Slovakia, offering insights into European cultural heritage, Lithuania’s diverse history, and its Tatar and Muslim communities. As part of the MARIO project’s exchange program, the Islamic Foundation in Slovakia partnered with the Lithuanian organization “Education and Heritage” for a meaningful visit.

The program opened with a meeting with Lithuanian Mufti A. Beganskas, who shared updates on Vilnius Mosque plans, while the Slovak delegation provided valuable input on fostering interfaith dialogue. A highlight was the session with Prof. Dr. Galina Miškinienė, an authority on Tatar heritage in Lithuania. She captivated the guests with her work in translating ancient Tatar manuscripts and her leadership of Lithuanian Philology and Turkish Language programs at Vilnius University.

The Slovak visitors also attended Vilnius University and joined the “Nations Fair 2024” in downtown Vilnius, where they enjoyed dishes presented by “Totoriškas skonis” (Tatar Taste) and connected with Tatar culinary traditions. They continued their tour in Kaunas, meeting the Muslim community at the “Minaretas” weekend school and sharing educational resources.

This exchange strengthened ties between Lithuania and Slovakia, fostering cooperation and expanding knowledge on cultural diversity. Plans are now in place to invite Prof. Dr. Miškinienė to Slovakia for future discussions on Tatar heritage. Both communities look forward to new initiatives that will promote cultural heritage and deepen intercultural understanding across borders.