Beginning of Egyptological studies in Lithuania and their development (the end of the 16th c. - the beginning of the 21th c.)

Beginnings of interest in Ancient Egypt in Lithuania date to the end of the 16th c. Travellers who with different purposes visited Egypt spread the information about this distinct culture. The greatest among such travellers was the count Mikhal Tyszkiewicz (1827-1897). He conducted archaeological excavations in Egypt and afterwards became one of the greatest art collectors in Europe. When Lithuania became independent, the first steps to professional Egyptology could be made. Marija Rudzinskaite-Arcimaviciene (1885-1941) who studied in Moscow became the first to teach Ancient Egyptian culture in Lithuanian universities. Her studies and activity have left an important trace in the Lithuanian culture