Cultural Heritage as the Basis of National Identity: A Case Study of Vilnius Karaites and Tatars

Abstract

Vilnius is a multicultural city, characterized by a diversity of nationalities, cultures, religions and customs. The culture of the Karaites and Tatars, who have lived in Lithuania since the fourteenth century, reflecting the identity and long-standing heritage of these peoples, is among the representatives of this diversity. The article explores the most significant elements of the national identity of Vilnius Karaites and Tatars and the contribution of cultural heritage to the preservation of national identity. The sources of the research are articles about the above-mentioned communities in the online media and semi-structured interviews with members of the Karaite and Tatar communities of Vilnius. The study has revealed that the Karaites and Tatars living in Vilnius and their cultural heritage are positively viewed in the online media. The analysis of semi-structured interviews has shown that Vilnius Karaites and Tatars define their national identity not only in terms of cultural heritage but also in terms of geographic commonality, community activities and social ties. When talking about their cultural heritage, Vilnius Karaites and Tatars particularly emphasize culinary heritage, stories, traditions, and religion.