Throughout history, Bosnians had a pretty tolerant lot, their land inhabited by the followers of Islam, Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism and a host of their religions and ideologies. This diversity is reflected in their art, architecture and cuisine, though the tolerance ended during the civil war. Apart from the various dialects the people of Bosnia & Herzegovina speak in same language though it is called ‘Bosnian’ in the Muslim part of the federation, ‘Croatian’ in Croat – controlled parts and ‘Serbian’ in the Republika srpska. The country’s eastern background is evident in its cuisine of grilled meats.
Belgium is famous for its artists and painters who have created many spectacular works of art. Early Belgian artists are believed to have invented oil painting, and stalwarts like Jan Van Eyck and Pieter Paul Reuben’s took the art to greater heights. Belgium is also known for its comic strips, the most famous one being Tin Tin, created by Herge. Belgian architecture is also world – renowned, and the cuisine (especially meat and seafood) is considered second only to French chips, fries (called frites), beer and chocolates are also famous here.
Belarusian folk music which originated from ritualistic ceremonies and church music is truly remarkable. Belarusian publishing has had a notable impact on the region as Belarusian Bibles were among the first books to be printed in Eastern Europe. Literature too is undergoing a revival here. The Eastern Orthodox faith in the state religion and nearly 80% of Belarusians belong to this religion.
Albania’s culture is heavily influenced by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Turks, Slavs and Italians who conquered the Balkans. But in spite of these foreign influences, the culture of Albanians is quite distinct and maintains its homogeneity in many fields. Literature, painting, architecture, music, dance and theater are the main areas which manifest Albania’s cultural heritage.
The culture of France has to a great extent influenced the culture of the entire western world, particularly in the areas of art and letters. Paris has been regarded as the fountainhead of French culture. During the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, France rose to cultural eminence as it attracted many of Europe’s most talented artists and artisans, who were patronized by the wealthy leisure class.
France has produced many world-famous painters such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Henri rousseau and Pabio Picasso and several influential schools of painting, including impressionism. France is also renowned for its sculptors such as Auguste Rodin and great Gothic Cathedrals built from the 12th to 15th century. Among the famous modern French architects are Auguste perret and Le Corbusier. Folk and Classical music too form an integral part of French culture.
People of Macedonia's present population, about 66% are Macedonian Slavs who bear no relations whatsoever to the Greek-speaking Macedonians of ancient times. Ethnic Albanians are the largest minority here, comprising about 22% of the population. Turks, Roma (Gypsies), Serbs and other long ethnic groups also live here.
Macedonia is known for its folk music. The drone of the gaida (bagpipes) and the chords of the tambura (two-stringed flute) provide a background for the kaval (flute) and tapan (a huge cylindrical drum). The most famous and popular Macedonian folk dance is the Teskoto performed by men dressed in traditional Macedonian costumes. It symbolizes the national awakening of the Macedonian people.
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