Slovenian Pavilion at Venice Biennale Explores History of Invisible Mosque

The Venice Biennale, a prestigious international art exhibition, this year hosts a thought-provoking installation from Slovenia that delves into a lesser-known aspect of history. The Nonument Group's "Sound Trace of an Invisible House", presented in the Slovenian pavilion, brings to light the story of a mosque that once stood in the small village of Log pod Mangartom, near Slovenia's northwestern border.

This project, as detailed by Delo, focuses on the mosque's existence and subsequent disappearance. The village, situated near the Italian border, was a site of conflict between Austro-Hungarian and Italian forces during World War I. Hundreds of military barracks were present, and for a period, a white wooden mosque served the soldiers. The Nonument Group uses this historical site to explore the complex relationship between religion and military power.

“

We are experiencing rhetoric of clashes of civilizations and national and religious intolerance.

Their work critically examines how religious rhetoric has been systematically employed by both military and colonial authorities throughout history. The construction of the mosque in Log pod Mangartom by the Austro-Hungarian Empire is presented as an example of this instrumentalization, aimed at bolstering the morale, obedience, and discipline of soldiers. This Slovenian perspective offers a unique lens on the intersection of faith, conflict, and imperial strategy, highlighting how even seemingly minor historical details can reveal broader patterns of power and control.

“

Throughout history, both military and colonial authorities have systematically instrumentalized religion: using religious rhetoric to strengthen soldiers' loyalty, morale, and discipline.