The spirit of a nation lies in its language. On the 100th anniversary of the birth of world-renowned Lithuanian Baltic linguist, academician, and professor Zigmas Zinkevičius.
Recognizing the importance of preserving historical, political, and sociocultural memory, as well as marking significant anniversaries of events and individuals important to the Lithuanian state, the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania has declared 2025 the Year of Zigmas Zinkevičius.
In support of this initiative, the New Archive of the Lithuanian State has prepared a virtual exhibition and invites the public to explore its fascinating galleries.
Professor Zigmas Zinkevičius, who brought international recognition to Lithuania, was a shining example of love for his country, sincere dedication to its cause, and loyalty to its people. His work and ideas played a crucial role during the years of Soviet occupation in resisting Russification, nurturing Lithuanian national consciousness, and inspiring especially young people to explore the history of their language and land—not only to learn, but also to take pride in their nation and its spiritual culture, the core of which is the rich and resonant Lithuanian language.
The exhibition highlights the key milestones in Zinkevičius’ biography—his professional, academic, educational, public, and political activities. Visitors to the exhibition galleries will find a rich collection of photographs, awards, video materials, and a wide array of documents, publications, articles, as well as letters of appreciation and greetings dedicated to the professor.
A central element of the exhibition is the collection of memories and reflections from Professor Zinkevičius’ former colleagues, students, peers, friends, and family. Among those who kindly shared their recollections are his son Vytautas Zinkevičius, daughter Laimutė Šinkūnienė, linguist and Doctor of Humanities Antanas Smetona, librarian and artist Vytautas Gocentas, bibliographer Janina Stankevičienė, writer and literary critic Professor Vytautas Martinkus, economist and academic Antanas Buračas, linguist and teacher Janina Švambarytė-Valužienė, translator Evija Liparte, and director-cinematographer Algirdas Tarvydas.