HERITO, No. 48: Romani Culture in Central Europe

In the latest Herito, we look at the history of the Roma, but above all at their present, and especially at how “Romaness” in its broadest sense manifests itself in the architecture, culture and art of our part of the world.

The Roma are an ethnic minority uniquely burdened with stereotypes, which can be seen, for example, in ingrained Polish sayings and phrases. The situation is similar in other Central European countries, where Roma people encounter various forms of racism and exclusion.

Although the Roma are not a homogeneous group, as they are not united by language, common statehood or culture, a Roma awakening is underway. Artists and scholars of Roma origin are becoming more and more visible, and the effects of their work are being noticed

and appreciated, as evidenced, for example, by the success of Małgorzata Mirga‑Tas.