Cultural Relations and Greek Community

According to official data for the year 2011, Greece ranks 3rd amongst the most popular holiday destinations (15.800 visitors approximately). Respective data for the 1st half of 2012, position her at the 4th place, with 5.800 visitors. The reduced number is due to the fact that, in the course of the year, many visitors opted for RYANAIR, without recourse to a tour operator, as a result of which relevant statistical data are not available. Greek-mainly from Pontos- residents of Lithuania (statistical data of 2009) are estimated at 176 people. A Greek association entitled “Association of Greece in Lithuania-Patrida” was established in 1995. It numbers 100 members. Within the framework of the Chair of Classical Literature of the University of Vilnius, an unofficial Greek Language Department does operate. The University has kindly extended a number of hours dedicated to the teaching of the Greek language, as selective course, to a Teacher from the Greek Ministry of Education.