Aspects of the European-Guyanese heritage part of EU cultural observance

Jun 04, 2018 News

Europeans came to these shores and left aspects of their culture which is evident in the nation’s cuisine, architecture, and infrastructure.

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtiè

Guyana has several buildings reminiscent of the Portuguese, Dutch, and English of the European culture. As Europeans across the world are celebrating their customs, traditions, and cultural aspects that they contributed to the various continents, aspects of Guyana’s ties to Europe will be featured.
European Union, (EU)’s Ambassador to Guyana, Jernej Videtiè noted that as the EU observes the European Year of Cultural Heritage, historic cities and literary works would be highlighted.
Videtiè in his remarks said the heritage of the EU is a rich and diverse mosaic of rich creative expressions inherited from previous generations of Europeans.
“It includes natural and archaeological sites and museums, monuments, artworks, historic cities, and literary works, and the knowledge and practical works of European citizens.
“The European Union and Guyana share a rich cultural history. Last year, I was pleased to launch with President David Granger the book Aspects of the European-Guyanese heritage.”
During the launch of the publication last year, Videtiè noted that the book is just another demonstration of the excellent cooperation between the EU and Guyana. He explained that while Guyana is known for its stunning natural beauty and its hospitality, it is less known for its architectural heritage and rich history.
“I am convinced that it will be more beneficial for Guyana to highlight this aspect as part of the brand of Guyana.”
He further added that, ‘’this book illustrates the many facets of Guyana’s State-building process, how symbols of its Statehood had been established and how important it is to value them and uphold them for future generations.”
Many persons contributed to the content of the publication including President David Granger, who penned an article on the Dutch Colonial Governor Laurens Storm Van’s Gravesande.
Copies of the book were set to be donated to 150 secondary schools across the country. Persons interested in purchasing copies can to do so through the Guyana Heritage Society.