SWEDEN FINLAND

NORWAY MEDITERRANEAN

ESTONIA RUSSIA NORTH SEA DENMARK LATVIA IRELAND Klaipėda LITHUANIA UNITED Vilnius KINGDOM BELARUS NETHERLANDS POLAND BELGIUM GERMANY LUXEMBOURG CZECH UKRAINE The Lithuanian Baltic seacoast is The has been declared a REPUBLIC ATLANTIC undoubtedly one of the most beautiful UNSECO World Heritage Site – a real miracle OCEAN FRANCE SLOVAKIA in all of the Europe. White sand beaches are created by sand, wind and people between followed by dunes, while fresh pinewoods separate two bodies of water. It includes an impressive AUSTRIA MOLDOVA SWITZERLAND beaches from settlements. It is on our country‘s panorama of dunes – the white Volant sand HUNGARY coast that the washes ashore the most beauties playing with the wind; the still, Gray SLOVENIA ROMANIA beautiful amber in the world. The sea resorts of (Dead) Dunes that once covered over several CROATIA KLAIPĖDA Gargždai Lithuania themselves can be compared to an amber villages; and green, sandy hills overgrown with BOSNIA BLACK SEA Šilutė necklace, where every town or settlement, just like old woods. Romantic settlements that have ITALY HERZEGOVINA Nida PORTUGAL SERBIA the “sun stone” itself, has its own characteristic preserved a traditional fishermen’s architectural SPAIN glow. style harmoniously match the surrounding nature. Klaipėda is the country’s sea gateway – it is the largest centre of industry and culture in western The eastern coasts of the Curonian Bay are MEDITERRANEAN Lithuania. It is also one of the most rapidly completely different. The fishing delta of the developing cities in the country. During the warmer Nemunas fascinates visitors with the beauty of months, Palanga becomes the summer capital its lush wild nature, fauna, and abundance of of Lithuania – its pedestrian walkways, beaches, birds. The old fishing villages – Rusnė, Mingė, restaurants, bars, and clubs are alive with a variety and Dreverna – smell of freshly smoked of entertainment and cultural events. When it is cold fish. The Ventės ragas lighthouse looks like a outside, this in the pinewoods is an beacon for migrating birds; it seems to welcome excellent place for conferences, seminars, or much- the winged travelers to the nearby bird ringing deserved relaxation in the warmth of a health SPA. station – one of the oldest in Europe.

Lithuania is located in north-eastern and their native language is Lithuanian. This www.travel.lt Europe on the eastern coast of the language belongs to the Indo-European family of Baltic Sea. It shares borders with Belarus languages and is one of the oldest languages in (660 km), Latvia (588 km), Poland (103 km), and Europe. Lithuanian is the official language of the Russia – Kaliningrad (273 km). The coastline is country. The biggest national minorities living in 90 kilometres long. The territory of the country Lithuania are Polish (6.6%), Russians (5.4%) and is 65,300 square meters. The distance from the Belarusians (5.4 %). north to the south of the country is 276 km, and from the west to the east is 373 km. Climate In 1989, the scientists at the French National The climate of Lithuania is maritime-continental. Geographic Institute determined that the The average temperature in July is +17°C and Geographic Centre of Europe is in Lithuania; this in January -4.9°C. However, the temperature in fact is registered in the Guinness Book of Records. summer may rise to +30°C, and in winter, the temperatures fall to -32°C. Population According to the Department of Statistics’ data National Currency of 2011, 3.2 million people live in Lithuania. National currency is litas (LTL). The currency Lithuanians make up 83.9 % of the population exchange rate in Lithuania is 1 EUR = 3.4528 LTL.   Klaipėda – for the city and for the world www.klaipedainfo.lt

Top 5 places to visit in Klaipėda:

1. Theater square with the sculpture Lithuanian rivers, lakes, and in the Baltic Sea. Klaipėda, founded in 1252, is the oldest and the sea. Today Klaipėda actively cherishes “Ann from Tharau” A historical exhibit of Lithuanian navigation is city in Lithuania. The castle site and the its marine traditions; many are displayed in the Theater Square is in the heart of the city of set up in the casemates below castle ramparts. castle museum provide a vivid insight into the Lithuania Maritime museum. The “Albatross” Klaipėda, a place where many events and festivals The dolphinarium hosts vivacious dolphins and old city. The castle site is the historical city monument stands near the museum and is are held. In 1912, the fountain was placed in California sea lions in daily shows. center, where the city was established in the dedicated to the sailors who were lost at sea Theater square. It was dedicated to Simon Dach, traditions of the Livonian Order. First the castle (sculptor Klaudijus Pūdymas). a poet and professor at Konigsberg University, 4. Castle museum was built, and then the city grew around it, Founded by the Livonian order, Klaipėda who was born in Klaipėda. Citizens and guests Explore the development of the castle and the protected by the surrounding natural waters. boasts a rich history. In 14th century, the Order of the city admire the bronze sculpture of the town as it is presented in authentic 16-18th The city founders signed an agreement in 1252 transferred the city to the German Order. heroine of the poem “Ann from Tharau” on top century underground chambers. The exhibit for the construction of both Memelburg castle Later Klaipėda became a Prussian city and was of the small fountain. The young barefooted displays city stamps, documents, restored 17th and the city; the founders had a clear vision of famous as the strongest fortress of the country. girl, depicted in the sculpture, was one of the century traditional clothing, and archeological spreading the faith and becoming an important Stoll along St. John’s Hill, near the former city heroines portrayed by the poet. treasures which were found in the castle defensive fort. The city founders wanted cathedral, St. John’s Church, and imagine the The love song “Ann from Tharau” is song in ruins and the old town. You will also find the happiness for the citizens and wished the city ancient fortifications and the colorful life in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Today this Renaissance symbol of Klaipėda, a mid-16th “great happiness and salvation.” Over time, centuries past. German folk song is still played by hand bells in century golden ring with a diamond, which was numerous chronicles narrated the attacks by During the Napoleonic period, the city became the Munich city hall. discovered on the castle grounds. foreign forces and fierce battles for the Memel the temporary capital of Prussia; this was an castle, which was later renamed Klaipėda. exceptional period in the history of Klaipėda. 2. Neogothic Klaipėda Central Post Office 5. Sculpture park The Black Ghost statue, surfacing at the Dasel The legendary Prussian Queen Louise resided and carillon bell tower Wander through Sculpture Park and see one moat at the former castle, is a reminder of the in Klaipėda and visited the city often. This The Central Post Office was built in 1893. The hundred and seventeen sculptures created by old legends and the legendary city (designed royal period of the city’s history is marked by Post Office consists of three buildings: The 61 sculptors, which are dotted around the by sculptors Svajūnas Jurkus and Sergejus a memorial marker on the wall of the city hall, two- story post office has a penthouse in the 10 ha park. Plotnikovas). where Frederick William III, who was the King of centre and two small buildings on each side; one Klaipėda is a city of water. The poetess Agnes Prussia, and Queen Louise resided. Visitors can served as a storehouse and stable; the other was Miegel called it “a shining water land.” Flowing explore the oldest historical building of the city a carriage house. In 1987, the largest carillon through the city like a stream of life, the wind- and discover the majestic history of Klaipėda. in Lithuania was installed in the Central Post ruffled River Danė encourages individuality and In 1809, the October Edict, which abolished Office tower. Carillon concerts are played every gives strength to the citizens. The Curonian serfdom in Prussia, was signed in Klaipeda, Saturday and Sunday at midday. Bay and the Baltic Sea open roads to the world. and significant country reforms were initiated. The beauty of nature casts a spell on visitors, Many notably Danes, Russians, French and other 3. Maritime museum and and gives them a peace of mind; it carries the foreigners were residents or visitors of this dolphinarium in Smiltynė sorrows of the soul to the depths of the bay historical building. They are witnesses to the The Maritime Museum of Lithuania is a short city’s multicultural identity. ferry ride from Klaipėda across the bay. It is In 1923, Klaipėda became a city of the Republic located at the northernmost end of the Curonian Klaipėda Tourism and Culture of Lithuania. Soon afterwards, however, life Spit, called Kopgalis. The former defense fortress Information Center in the city was disrupted by World War II. In Today Klaipėda is a beautiful, attractive, was reconstructed in 1979 and soon after, the Turgaus str. 7, LT-91247 Klaipėda the postwar period, Klaipėda became a lost hospitable city, open to the world and Maritime museum was opened. Visitors may Tel.: + 370 46 412186, + 370 687 52051 Fax + 370 46 412185 city without inhabitants. Less than a tenth of the people. The city wishes its residents explore underwater life, learn about seals, penguins, colorful tropical sea fish, sea lions. E-mail: [email protected] the population remained. Later, new residents and visitors “great happiness and www.klaipedainfo.lt shaped the city. salvation.” People of all ages will enjoy the aquariums with nearly 40 species of fish that are found in   Klaipėda district – Gargždai www.klaipedadistrict.lt

Top 5 places to visit around Klaipėda:

1. Jonas Gižas ethnographic homestead 5. Dreverna quay The District of Klaipėda is a territory museum in Dreverna In 2009, a quay for small motor boats and between the Curonian Bay and the Baltic A museum and a tourism information centre are rowboats was opened in an old fishing village, Sea, including the city of Klaipėda. It is located in the Klaipėda regional ethnographic Dreverna, located at the Curonian Bay. the only district in Lithuania containing four fisherman’s homestead, which was restored in types of bodies of water – the sea, the bay, 2010. The museum display provides an insight into rivers and lakes. The River is one of the the life of the famous Dreverna boat builder and most picturesque and beautiful in the region. fisherman, Jonas Gižas, as well as the culture of the The Seaside Regional Park contains unique seacoast, fishing and maritime traditions. sea-side fauna and flora. You will be amazed by “Olando kepurė“ (Dutchman’s cap), soaring 2. Olando kepurė (Dutchman’s Cap) 24 meters above sea level, and the beach dotted Dutchman’s Cap is a high, steep cliff, leaning into with pebbles and boulders. the sea on a narrow strip of the Baltic Sea coast. The region is ideal for outdoor recreation. The wave-beaten cliff is 24.4 meters above sea Visitors will enjoy golfing in a classical world- level. For many years, Dutchman’s Cap served as a standard golf resort, windsurfing, flying kites, guide for sailors and fishermen. In 1818, the name diving, cycling, canoeing, fishing in the Baltic of the cliff was officially validated in marine maps Sea, and sailing in Curonian Bay. and charts. You are welcome to escape the noise of the city and spend an active holiday in a country tourism 3. Nature centre “Mini zoo” homestead. Country homesteads are unique The private mini zoo is home to over 300 species to the region. Visitors can enjoy lounging in a of exotic animals: ponies, donkeys, guanacos, sauna, and tasting the specialties of Samogitian llamas, camels, wallabies, wolves, pheasants, birds culinary heritage. of prey, tigers, pelicans and many other species. The nature centre aims to attract visitors who are passionate about nature and animals and offer them the opportunity to learn about wildlife. Jonušų village, Dauparų – Kvietinių subdistrict, Klaipėda district

4. Skomantai mound Skomantai mound, also called Raguva, is an archaeological monument and one the best reinforced mounds in Lithuania. The mound was established in the Pilsotas land in the first Gargždai centuries A.D. and was used until the 13th century. Tourism Information Center This place used to be a border between Lithuania Kvietinių str. 5, LT-96122 Gargždai Minor and Lithuania Major; an obelisk noting the Tel. / fax + 370 46 473416 uniting of the lands was built on the top of the Mob. + 370 620 81901 mound. E-mail: [email protected] Skomantų village, Veiviržėnų subdistrict, www.klaipedadistrict.lt Klaipėda district   Neringa www.visitneringa.com

Top 5 places to visit in Neringa:

1. Hill of Witches – exposition of 5. The Memorial Museum Neringa is a pearl of Lithuania and white and grey dunes and plant habitats adapted smoked. Even today settlements of Neringa wooden sculptures in Juodkrantė of Thomas Mann Europe, the Mecca of artists, a relaxation to life in sandy soil are especially interesting. carry the aroma of smoked fish. Visitors enjoy The Hill of Witches is one of the most beautiful In 1929–1930, based on architect‘s Reissmann oasis for the tired. The Neringa town was About 40 mammal species are met in the Curonian Curonian fish soup, smoked eels and breams, and the oldest parabolic dunes in Juodkrantė. project, a house resembling of fishermen‘s hut established only in 1961, yet the history of the Spit. The moose – the largest and the most widely dried smelts and fire-grilled vimbas. Inspired by this special place, artists carved was built in Nida, on a Mother-in-Law Hill. The town, surrounded by Curonian Bay and the Baltic known – is often considered to be a symbol of Another attribute of the Curonian lifestyle was sculptures of the characters of centuries-old famous writer Thomas Mann and his family sea, traces back to the times of the giants. Legend the spit. It’s a permanent home for about 300 amber. The locals gathered and processed the legends and tales. Over 80 oak sculptures are spent three summers (1930–1932) in this house. tells of a kind-hearted giantess Neringa, who species of birds. The most spectacular are great amber. In the beginning amber was collected on currently displayed on the Hill of Witches. Now the Memorial museum of Thomas Mann is had poured the Curonian Spit peninsula in order cormorants, grey herons and sea-eagles. The the shore, later people learned to draw it from open here. to create a safe haven for local fishermen and Curonian peninsula is crossed by the Baltic Sea the sea with long-stem skimmers, catch with 2. Heron and cormorant colony protect them from fierce monsters of the sea. For and the Black Sea bird migration route. Millions nets, and in more shallow waters it was gathered in Juodkrantė centuries this legend inspired the people living, of birds of different species fly over the spit every with special hooks. The largest and one of the oldest colonies of working, and creating here. The local people spring and autumn. The location is a heaven for In the second half of the 19th century, industrial grey herons (Ardea cinerea L.) and the great are distinguished for their strong and hardened bird observers. amber mining started in the Curonian Bay cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo L.) known characters, credibility and hospitality. For many The Curonian Spit is famous for a rich cultural beside Juodkrantė. In 1860, an enterprise in Lithuania are settled in Juodkrantė. These centuries the region attracts artists from all over heritage. The old inhabitants of the spit settled established by Stantien and Becker started colonies are observed from the end of the 19th the world. The legend of Neringa, hypnotising in this land in the 15th century; they were called amber excavation from the Curonian Bay with century. Currently there are around 2500 nests images and unique tradition are the Muses the Curonians. From the very old times the main mechanic shovels. 2250 tonnes of amber was of the great cormorant and over 500 nests of inspiring painters, photographers and writers. livelihood of the locals was fishing. The Curonians excavated in 30 years. In addition to the raw grey heron. The Curonian Spit is a narrow strip of sand, washed were sailing the bay on “kurėnas” – a wooden, amber, 434 pieces of archaeological amber ware, by water from both sides. Due to the unique flat-bottom sailing boat unique in construction. On dated 3rd century B.C., were discovered. These 3. The Cognitive path in the Naglių nature it is often called a SPA under the open the top of the mast, every fisherman would fasten valuable pieces were named the Juodkrantė nature reserve („the Dead Dunes“) sky. Neringa town was founded in 1961 when the a boat marking sign, called a weathervanes. The amber treasure. Naglių nature reserve occupies an area of 1680 settlements of the Curonian Spit – Nida, , weathervanes not only showed the direction of Beyond natural resources and a rich cultural ha. Discover the Grey (Dead) Dunes, former , Juodkrantė and Alksnynė steading – wind, but also indicated the boat’s dependence to heritage, Neringa offers a modern tourism settlement sites covered by sand, self-sown were united into one 47 km long administrative a specific village. Weathervanes were decorated infrastructure and active recreation possibilities. forest vegetation and centuries-old wood unit. with original wood carvings. Many fishermen Special attention is given to outdoor recreation soils buried underneath the sand. Stroll the Neringa resort is established in the Curionian Spit carved cosmological symbols, images of their facilities: games and sports fields, bicycle cognitive path and enjoy the sights of dunes National park which was included into the UNESCO dreams and surrounding environment. paths, forest infrastructure (cognitive paths, with impressive hollows and washouts, formed Inspired by the surrounding beauty of the sightseeing grounds), silence and non-smoking by strong winds. World Heritage List in 2000 as a cultural landscape Nida culture and tourism object, precious for multiple nature and cultural nature and being partly separated from the zones, sports and recreation inventory. information centre “Agila” heritage treasures. About 900 plant species are continent, the inhabitants of this region built Sand dunes with rare vegetation, seaside 4. The Parnidžio dune with a Solar Clock-Calendar Taikos str. 4, LT-9312 Neringa found in the park flora, 31 are included in the Red original wooden homes with thatch roofs. Their forests with centuries-old trees and highland Tel.: + 370 469 52345, 52827 List of Lithuania. The green robe of this land is homes were distinguished for their colouring and pine overgrowth planted by humans, white Astronomically the Parnidžio dune is an ideal Fax + 370 469 52015 formed by coniferous overgrowth. Nature of the decorative elements, mostly in the attics. Fine- sand beaches, town infrastructure (streets, and the only suitable place for such clock in E-mail: [email protected] carved gables of the roof served a decorative and embankments, old town with typical regional Lithuania where an absolute mathematical a symbolic – protective function. architecture), sightseeing objects, aroma of horizon opens up. It is the only place where you Tourism information in Juodkrantė The major product in the nutrition of the Curonian smoked fish, cultural and sports events – are the will see the sun rising from the water and setting L. Rėzos str. 8, LT-93101 Juodkrantė, Neringa inhabitants was fish; it was consumed instead of attractions creating the uniqueness of this region into the water - from the bay to the sea. The Tel. / fax + 370 469 53490 meat, bread, and vegetables. Smart housewives and remaining in the heart of every visitor. height of the Parnidžio dune is 52 m above the E-mail: [email protected] www.visitneringa.com served the fish raw, dried, roasted, stewed and Everyone can find here their own Neringa! sea level.

  Weathervanes Amber

Weathervanes were unique system of Lithuania is known for Baltic amber. signs developed around the Curonian Amber is fossil pine resin which is older than Lagoon in the beginning of the 19th 30 million years. For ancient times Lithuanian century. According to the law every fisherman people used amber as decoration, as jewelry had to have a special sign on the top of the boat and even as a medicine. Amber possesses in order to recognize his origin. Every village had healing qualities which are used in natural it’s own flag, so there was a possibility to take medicine field. The amber possesses special control of the fishery in . amber acid which is very useful for people The fishermen used to spend many hours on the health. It helps to release pain and fight with water waiting for their catch. That is why they many more diseases. That is why there are some started to decorate the weathervanes. After unforgettable recipes of amber use: amber some time weathervanes could give not just powder is used in cosmetics and soaps, amber a lot of information about each fisherman but tea can help to get rid of the toxins and “amber also became decorative, control pieces of art. vodka” helps to solve digestion problems. The weathervanes had tree main parts: the top, The color of amber varies from dark grey, green the leeward and the windward sides. The most or red to transparent golden, butterscotch or decorative was the leeward side, on which views white. Every piece of amber is warm and unique. of the native village (a church, a house, an elk, Nowadays there are many ways to make amber a boat etc.) were most often craved. The top look even more beautiful. Lithuania has many gave the information about family, number of professional jewelers who create amazing children, marriage... The fishermen used to paint amber jewelry. They take parts in world known the weathervanes in bright colors: red, green, fairs and use the latest style and technologies in blue, white. creating new articles of amber jewelry. The appearance of the weathervanes tell us that even the ancient fisherman’s lifestyle was austere, at the same time fishermen estimated beauty, thought of severe kind.

10 11 Palanga www.palangatic.lt

Top 5 places to visit in Palanga

Palanga is the most popular resort in Lithuania, open for holidays all year 1. Palanga Botanical Park was not suitable for navigation. From 1892 the round. The greatest assets of Palanga are fine is one of the most beautiful and the best pier became a favorite place for promenades. sandy beaches with dunes and pine forests. The maintained parks not only in Lithuania but also Time, sea waves and wind have devastated the attractions for visitors are the fresh seaside air, the in Eastern Europe. The park was created by pier. Fortunately, in 1998 a new pier, 470 meters warm sun and the cool sea, and healing mineral count Feliksas Tiškevičius in 1897. The palace long, was built. It is the only pier of this kind in waters. Guests come for holidays in the summer was built the same year. The architect was Lithuania. and for healing treatments all year round. famous French landscape groundskeeper and Saying good-bye to the sun from the pier is an Palanga is balneotherapic resort. Fresh sea water, botanist Edouard Francois Andre (1840–1911). old tradition cherished by everyone visiting mineral waters, peat mud and other physical Palanga. therapeutic elements are used in therapy to heal 2. Museum of Amber a variety of aliments. Palanga sanatoriums and The museum was established on August 3, 1963, 5. Palanga beaches rehabilitation centers are open all year round. in the former count Feliksas Tiškevičius palace In 2010 “The Sunday Times” selected 20 of the The pride of the city is the Museum of Amber, in the centre of the park. The exhibit presents best European beaches. Palanga was the only one of the largest collections of amber in the amber formations, trade routes, and excavation beach listed along the Baltic Sea. world. You will be charmed by rich collection of amber in the museums 15 halls. It is unlikely of amber inclusions and impressive amber that you would see such a rich collection of nuggets, including the Sun Stone, weighting over amber inclusions and unique formations in any 3 kilograms. Palanga Botanical Park is one of the other museum in the world. Over 4.5 thousand most beautiful and the best maintained parks not pieces are displayed in the museum. The most only in Lithuanian but also in Eastern Europe. valuable piece of the museum collection is the Palanga has preserved old resort traditions and Sun Stone; it is one the largest amber nuggets in is the most famous resort in Lithuania. During the world, weighting over 3 kilograms. summers, this seaside town becomes a symbolic capital. The Baltic Sea horizons, fine sand beaches, 3. J. Basanavičiaus Street dunes and pine forests fascinate many visitors. Each visitor promenades the street, as there Palanga is a resort meeting various interests and are many cafes and attractions. It is the main everyone can find their most favorite activity: street leading to the pier. You will find over swimming in the sea, sunbathing, walking the 30 restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy alleys of the Botanical park, enjoying excursions, not only Lithuanian cuisine, but also foods listening to “Midnight serenades”, attending folk from Ukraine, Russia, and Armenia. After theater performances, participating in sports reconstruction, J. Basanavičiaus Street has events, and enjoying live entertainment along J. become one of the most beautiful, green and Basanavičiaus street. These are only a small part of spacious streets in Palanga resort. entertainment activities in Palanga. Palanga tourism Slogan of Palanga – 4. Palanga Pier information centre “Palanga – the summer capital” In 1884-1888, Count Tiškevičius built a pier Vytauto str. 94, LT-00132 Palanga out to the sea hoping that it would reduce the Tel. + 370 460 48811, fax + 370 460 48822 inconveniences experienced by visitors arriving E-mail: [email protected] to Palanga. However after many storms the pier www.palangatic.lt was covered with sand and after a few years it 12 13 Kretinga www.kretingosturizmas.info

Top 5 places to visit in the district of Kretinga:

Kretinga is one of the oldest 1. Kretinga museum with winter garden settlements in Lithuania, first noted Kretinga museum is located in the former palace in historical documents in 1253. of Count Tiškevičius and exhibits art work Occasionally, it is called the “Franciscan capital” representing the palace culture, archeological because it has five functioning monasteries. findings, ethnographic living conditions, and One of the most interesting places in Kretinga is contemporary art. Inside, an arboretum holds the Kretinga museum, established in the former over 580 species of plants. palace of Count Tiškevičiai. Inside, an arboretum boasts over 580 species of plants. The palace is 2. Orvidų homestead – stone museum surrounded by one of the most beautiful parks The museum was established by Kazimieras in . It occupies an area of 23 hectors; Vilius Orvidas, who for many years, transported here visitors can find an astronomic calendar interestingly shaped stones and trees from with a sundial and 13 sculptures from oak, stone and surrounding areas to his homestead and metal, reflecting ancient culture traditions and created monuments and sculptures of the Balts. The nearby watermill, restored from them. It took 30 years to transform the in 2011, is adapted for the Kretinga museum homestead into an unconventional shrine of art. ethnographic collection. Gargždelės village, Kretinga distr. The district of Kretinga is famous for nearly 750 diverse cultural heritage objects and for its 3. Japanese garden “Samogitia” unique landscape. Former manors and manor Visitors should not miss the opportunity to houses, legendary and mythological sites, Only in Kretinga district, in Gargždelė, you have take a walk through the park, participate in the bridges, windmills, memorial monuments, and an opportunity to visit an open-air museum process of park’s design, relax and meditate. unique homesteads attract visitors. of sacramental and mystical art, established Here you will find the most unique bonsai The rivers of Minija, Salantas, Akmena, and by Kazimieras Vilius Orvidas, a talented folk garden in the Baltic States. Šventoji cross through the district. Visitors will artist and sculptor. Europe’s largest Japanese Mažučių village, Kretinga distr. also enjoy Kašučių Lake, Lazdininkų pond and 30 garden “Samogitia” is interesting for guests. smaller ponds in the area. Waters are suitable Experienced gliders are invited to fly over the 4. Kretinga manor watermill for active recreation; guests can canoe, fish, and district for a bird’s eye view. Recreation lovers Kretinga’s stone watermill was built in enjoy the beaches and camping sites. In Salantai can watch motoball games, enjoy horse- back 1770–1771. It has been restored and, since 2011, Regional Park, visitors can explore walking and riding, drive go- karts, try their strength in it hosts the ethnographic museum in Kretinga. cycling paths. Boulders, found over the entire paintball courts, shoot arrows on archery fields, Akmena river basin, are yet another natural and compete in adventure routes in Samogitian 5. The Church of the Annunciation of treasure of the Kretinga district. forests. the Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary and Kretinga Bernardine monastery Kretinga district Built in 1617, this is the oldest remaining church tourism information in Samogitia. It is famous for the largest wooden Vilniaus str. 2B, altar in Lithuania and the oldest known organ LT-97129 Kretinga in Lithuania. The Church of the Annunciation Tel.: + 370 445 73102, + 370 605 43100 E-mail: [email protected] of the Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the www.kretingosturizmas.info Benedictine monastery are open to visitors. 14 15 Šilutė region www.siluteinfo.lt

The district of Šilutė is famous for an exclusive geographical location, a unique landscape and a distinctive ethnic culture. The tourism season here is much longer than in the rest of Lithuania. The season starts with extreme spring floods through roads and meadows. In summer visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation and the rich historical and cultural heritage. Even in winter, you can try ice-fishing on the Curonian Bay. The Šilutė region is widely known for water Top 5 places to visit in the district of Šilutė: sports and excellent fishing sites both for amateur and professional fishermen. Enjoy a 1. 19th century architecture in impressive architecture has attracted Lithuanian relaxing stay in one of the many country tourism the old town of Šilutė movie producers. homesteads, at a bay-front hotel or just stop Šilutė is the centre of the district. The town is to taste home-made organic berry wine and famous for many historical buildings and bridges 4. Rusnė island traditionally made fish. built in the early 19th century. The Museum of Rusnė is the largest island in Lithuania. It is Looking for an adventure outdoor? Enjoy Regional Studies is located in a reconstructed famous for its beautiful nature, variety of birds canoeing along the shores of the Curonian Bay late classical style mansion of Hugo Scheu, built and deep spring floods. and in the flooded meadows and forests. Or ride in 1819. a jeep on in Rusnė island, or try extreme survival 5. Minija, the Venice of Lithuania training in the regional park. 2. Ventės Ragas and Minija (Mingė, Minė) is a so-called the Venice The region is attractive to tourists for its unique ornithological station of Lithuania. Instead of a street, the River history and for a rich cultural heritage. There are Ventė is a village on the shore of the Curonian Minija flows through the village and boats are over 300 cultural heritage sites. Bay in the far Western point of the Šilutė region. more common than cars. The fishing village, Favorable weather, strong winds, good water The lighthouse has been in operation for almost called Minė or Mingė by the locals, is perched conditions and fine accommodations make 150 years. Both legends and true stories tell of on both banks of the river. Explore the distinct Ventė peninsula the sailing capital of Lithuania. a Teutonic castle and ships that crashed into the architecture of Lithuania Minor and discover During the warm season a kite-surfing and sails are held. Enjoy a snow motorbike or shores. In Ventės Ragas, tourists can visit the astonishing nature, untouched by human hands. windsurfing school offers. In the winter season, sled ride, and try a special transport vehicle bird banding station and a small museum. Study championships of ice-sailing and skibobs with “Schumacher,” adapted for the coastal region. the history and research of bird ringing and Discover the region of Šilutė, enjoy the migration, and discover a rich world of birds. spectacular landscape, sail along the rivers and channels, and rest in the tranquil environment. 3. Švėkšna Šilutė Museum and The village of Švėkšna is famous for the highest Tourism information centre Lietuvininkų str. 4 (75 m) twin-tower red brick church in the region LT-99179 Šilutė which was built in 1905. A park, established Tel. + 370 441 77785 by the counts Pliateriai in the 18th century, E-mail: [email protected] contains an impressive linden alley, a villa, a www.siluteinfo.lt mansion, ponds and sculptures. The town’s 16 17 Skuodas www.skouds.lt

Top 5 places to visit in the district of Skuodas The district of Skuodas is located in the 1. S. Daukantas barn Northern area of Klaipėda County on Only one building remains on the birthplace the Latvian border. The largest part of the of the famous historian, and folklore collector district is located in Samogitian and the West Simonas Daukantas. The museum of S. Daukantas Curonia highlands. The territory of the district is located in a restored thatched barn, which includes parts of Samogitian national park dates back to the childhood days of his peasant and Salantai national park, as well as 9 nature upbringing and depicts the culture of that time. reserves. Skuodas is located in the centre of the district, 2. Mosėdis only 2 km south from the Latvian border. Other The unique stone museum founded by Doctor smaller towns of the district are Barstyčiai, Vaclovas Intas welcomes the visitors with its , and Mosėdis. chamber and outdoor exhibitions. In summer, The name of Skuodas was mentioned in the doctor’s homestead and the whole town historical documents from year 1253, when the of Mosėdis resembles the “Switzerland Livonian Order and the Curonian bishop divided of Lithuania.” The town centre features a the local lands. In 1572, seeking to exploit the magnificent white baroque style church, which is geographical position of the town and promote one of the most beautiful churches in the region. its development, J. Chodkevičius was granted the town the rights of Magdeburg. 3. Skuodas museum An exceptional place of the Skuodas district, The museum has 5 halls with permanent exhibits. Mosėdis is a mecca for Samogitian tourists. The Displays of folk art, professional art, and various town boasts of V. Intas’ homestead and a unique other displays are held in exhibition chambers Stone park and museum founded by V. Intas. Swedish King Olaf and his army on the Curonian and in the museum hall. In the summer, various events and festivals are town of Apulia. Since 2004, the “Apuolė 854”, an held in the Stone valley. The most popular is the Baltic Sea regional ancient tribe war and crafts 4. Agricultural museum international festival of living crafts and folklore fair, has been held on the Apuolė mound. This museum exhibit highlights agricultural „Bieg opelė vėngordama“. The town of Mosėdis The largest stone of Lithuania, called Puokės implements, gear, buildings, smithery works and has inherited interesting natural surroundings stone, lies in the village of Puokė in the utensils used in the past centuries. Visitors are including old tree alleys, a watermill, a pond, a Barstyčiai district. The stone is 13.4 m long, accompanied by a tour guide who is the creator geological-botanical park and a museum. 3.6 m high, 7.5 m wide and weighs around and founder of the museum. Guest can also try The oldest settlement and historical mound of 680 tonnes. to work with the blacksmith’s tools. Lithuania, Apuolė, is found in the Aleksandrija Skuodas culture, historical monuments and subdistrict. A Rimbert chronicle “The life of heritage is dominated by fine arts – sculptures, 5. Apuolė mound St.Anskar” depicts a 854 year campaign by the chapels, paintings, church altars, cemeteries Tourist can feel the grand spirit of the past Skuodas municipality and homesteads. The majority of the art was as they climb the Apuolė mound, the oldest Culture and Tourism division created during the 19–20th centuries. Visitors settlement in Lithuania. The Apuole mound was Gedimino str. 1, LT-98124 Skuodas may also find bells, Stations of the Cross, and written about historical sources in the year 853. Tel. + 370 440 73 935 Fax + 370 440 73 935 benches from 18th century. The oldest treasures Enjoy the Baltic Sea annual ancient tribe war and E-mail: [email protected] crafts festival each year. are preserved in the churches of Skuodas, Ylakiai www.skouds.lt and Mosėdis, Aleksandrija. 18 19 Lithuanian cuisine Shopping

Lithuanians like to eat good, tasty, filling foods. The tradition of eating Lithuania offers a diverse range of well has been inherited from our shopping options and has many items ancestors, who would say, that will make the perfect gifts or “who eats well, works well.” souvenirs to remind visitors of their All four ethnographic regions of Lithuania have time in our country. One cannot visit their own old recipes – soups, which will warm Lithuanian seaside without purchasing some up on a wintry day, a lot of dishes made from amber. Baltic amber can be purchased in potatoes, white curds cheese, which is best various forms, especially jewelry. Other popular with honey, and brown rye-bread. Not many items include wood carvings, paintings and countries have such wide variety of rye-bread as linen goods. National artists sell their works in Lithuania. specialized art galleries. For those who like beer, Lithuania is a true Your shopping adventure starts in the quaint, paradise because this country produces a great small streets of Klaipėda Old town. Antiques and variety of high quality beers. Bulviniai blynai – plain potato pancakes. traditional Lithuanian souvenirs of amber, wood, There are many restaurants and cafes in Vėdarai - grated potatoes are used to make metal, leather and linen can be purchased here. Klaipėda where you can taste Lithuanian sausages which are baked in oven. This is a very There are also malls with shops and boutiques national dishes. ancient Lithuanian dish. offering a wide selection of stylish clothes and Skilandis - is made by smoking a pig’s stomach jewelry. The biggest malls in Klaipėda are open We recommend you to try these filled with minced meat, salted and seasoned 7 days a week. traditional dishes with pepper and garlic Cepelinai – consists of pork meat wrapped in a Also try Lithuanian alcoholic drinks – large potato pastry and covered in cream curd “Trejos devynerios” (it is noted in some sauce. Grated potatoes are strained through historical sources that it was produced in the cloth, combined with some mashed boiled middle ages in our country already), “Dainava” potatoes, salt, pepper and eggs. This mixture (mead balm), “Krupnikas” (liqueur from is folded around minced meat, shaped into honey and herbs). Do not forget Lithuanian oblongs and boiled in salted water. Meat can be beer – the most popular and famous in Lithuania substituted for by soft cottage cheese. is “Švyturys”. Šaltibarščiai (cold beetroot soup) – it is usually served with hot potatoes, this is a Special dishes of the region: delicious dish on hot summer days; Smoked fish (eel)– especially popular in the Kugelis - grated potato cake. Šilutė region and on the Curonian spit. “Memelbrau” Beer – this beer is produced by “Švyturys” brewers as a sign of gratitude to the people of the Klaipėda region. Therefore, this beer is distributed exclusively only in the coastal reagion.

20 21 The Palanga International Airport

Klaipėda ← 18 km → Gargždai The Palanga International Airport is the third largest airport in Lithuania with daily Klaipėda ← 23 km → Kretinga Klaipėda ← 53 km → Šilutė passenger flights. This regional airport is located near the Baltic Sea. The location Klaipėda ← 75 km → Skuodas of the airport is favorable for both tourists and business travelers. The Palanga Klaipėda ← 26 km → Palanga Airport serves people in the three districts of Lithuania (Klaipėda, Telšiai, Tauragė), Klaipėda ← 51 km → Nida Liepaja (LV) and Kaliningrad (RU); this region has a total population of approximately 570,000 people.

The airport is easily accessible by car from Airport technical data: the surrounding towns in the region, as well as from neighboring states. • Runway length: 2280 m, width 45 m The airport is located: • Runway surface: asphalt-concrete • 7 km from Palanga (10 min) • Runway strength: PCN 48F/B/W/T • 35 km from Klaipėda (30 min) • Radio navigation equipment: ILS/DME • 65 km from Liepaja (LV) (1 hour) • 8 parking areas for medium and heavy-weight • 80 km from Nida (2 hours) aircraft • 120 km from Šiauliai (2,5 hours) • 10 parking areas for general aviation aircraft • 160 km from Kaliningrad (RU) (3,5 hours) • Rescue and fire-fighting service category: CAT 6 • Approach and runway lightning RWY 01 420M The closest railway station is in Kretinga, which is LIH, RWY 19 900M II CAT LIH 17 km from Palanga. • The Airport infrastructure handles the following aircraft types: B737 200/300/400/500/800, The airport operates according to the CRJ900, CRJ200, ATR72/42, A320, and others. requirements of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and ECAC (European Services provided at the airport: Civil Aviation Conference). The Airport services both passengers from Schengen countries and • Cafe those not belonging to the Schengen Area at the • Duty-free shops same time. In recent years, the total number • Ticket sales of passengers served has exceeded 100,000 • Car and minibus rental passengers per year. • Passenger transportation by bus, minivan and taxi • Conference hall for rent The Palanga • Bank and foreign exchange office International Airport • Hotel reservations Liepojos pl. 1, Palanga LT-00169 • Advertisement space for lease Tel. + 370 460 52 020 • Internet service (WIFI) E-mail: [email protected] • Ground handling services www.palanga-airport.lt • Fuel supply to aircrafts • Supplies of packaged food for aircrafts 22 23 Part financed by European Union www.south-baltic-airport.eu S O U T H B ALTIC (European Regional Development Fund) G L O B A L ACCESS and the South Baltic Programme

Photo archive: KTCIC, Gargždai TIC, Nida CTIC “Agila”, Palanga TIC, Kretinga district TIC, Šilutė museum and TIC.