Hungarian cultural centre to launch in Ljubljana

Ljubljana’s new Hungarian cultural centre, the Balassi Institute, will hold its first event next week in honour of the 135th anniversary of the birth of composer Béla Bartók.

The centre, which seeks to encourage and facilitate cultural exchange between Slovenia and Hungary and strengthen interest in Hungarian culture within Slovenia, was officially opened on 22 January by the Slovenian and Hungarian prime ministers, Miro Cerar and Viktor Orbán, respectively. Director of the Institute Biborka Molnár-Gábor announced that the cultural centre would be presented to the wider public at the anniversary event on 19 April.

According to Hungarian ambassador to Slovenia Edit Szilágyiné Bátorfi, one of the main barriers for better understanding between the countries is language, which can be overcome by using culture as an universal language. She noted that the centre’s programme would also cover literature and film, stressing the desire to show “what Hungary can offer and make sure that its is no longer a terra incognita to Slovenians”.

As well as organising scientific events and courses in the Hungarian language, the centre plans to work together with other cultural institutions in the Slovenian capital.

The Balassi Institute launch will take place on 19 April, beginning with a concert by the Hungarian Accord Quartet featuring pieces by Bartók, followed by an exhibition.

Source: The Slovenia Times