More information
Description
Peipsiland — having been at the crossroads of different powers for centuries— is a very peculiar area both culturally and linguistically. Our goal is to support networking between the different cultural and linguistic communities (Kodavere, Setomaa, Old Believer villages, Iisaku), exchanging of experiences and strengthening their representative associations. We engage young people to encourage them to explore and appreciate their traditional culture and learn the local dialects.
Preserving local languages, dialects is important because they connect and support the relationship between people, history, nature, and tradition, and create community unity and identity.
The project helps to introduce Peipsiland rich cultural and linguistic heritage to a large audience and to raise awareness of the need to preserve it. We also develop joint positions to maintain the language and cultural region of Peipsimaa.
The project is a preparation for the 2024 Year of Cultural Diversity announced by the Ministry of Culture.
Summary of project results
The goal of the project was to strengthen cooperation between the ethnocommunities and heritage centers of Peipsimaa (particularly Iisaku, Torma, Kodavere, Setomaa, and Old Believer centers) for experience exchange and empowerment. Additionally, the project aimed to develop common positions for preserving the linguistic and cultural region of Peipsimaa.
The main activities of the project included:
- Seminars and Study Visits: Opening seminar for regional museums and heritage centers; a youth seminar and study visit to Setomaa to exchange ideas on preserving and teaching cultural heritage; a heritage seminar focusing on Peipsimaa fishing villages and Old Believers'' traditions.
- Community Engagement and Cultural Exploration: A media tour exploring Peipsimaa’s linguistic and cultural heritage; a heritage hike in Pala village in collaboration with the Kodavere Heritage Center.
- Networking and Collaboration: Regular meetings between heritage centers and museums; a presentation on Peipsimaa heritage at a tourism seminar.
- Media and Communication: Online publications, social media updates, and articles in national and local media to promote Peipsimaa’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
The project contributed to the growth of the operational capacity of the Peipsi Cooperation Center by enhancing collaboration with regional heritage centers and museums. Staff members gained valuable knowledge through seminars, which will support the development of future projects.
As recognition for its efforts, the Peipsi Cooperation Center received an award in December 2023 from the Peipsimaa Tourism competition for its work on developing the Peipsimaa Heritage Route.
The project also played a role in promoting awareness of Peipsimaa’s minority cultures. Several meetings were held with local governments and school leaders to highlight the importance of integrating cultural heritage into municipal development plans.
Through various project activities, both Peipsimaa residents and the broader Estonian public have gained a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage, local languages, and the need for their preservation.