Lithuania is a beautiful country along the Baltic sea with a lot to offer. From its rich history to its beautiful landscape, there are plenty of reasons to add Lithuania to your travel bucket list. Here are some fun facts about Lithuania that will make you want to visit.
Lithuania Folk Music
Traditional Lithuanian music is typically vocal-based and features a wide variety of instruments. Among the most commonly used are the Baltic psaltery, accordion, violin, and wooden flute. The Baltic psaltery is a folk instrument that dates back to the 13th century. It is played by plucking the strings. This produces a distinctive sound that is often used as a lead instrument in Lithuanian folk bands.
The accordion is another popular choice for traditional music. It first became popular in Lithuania in the 19th century and has since become an essential part of Lithuanian culture. The violin is another common choice for traditional music, and has been used in Lithuanian music for centuries. last but not least, the wooden flute is also a popular choice. It is often used as a solo instrument or to accompany other instruments. These are just some of the most commonly used instruments in traditional Lithuanian music.
Modern Lithuanian Music
Lithuanian music has undergone a fascinating journey over the past century. Once part of the Soviet Union, Lithuania was subject to strict censorship laws that limited the type of music that could be played. However, after gaining independence in 1991, Lithuanian musicians were suddenly able to experiment with a wide range of styles and influences. As a result, modern Lithuanian music is incredibly diverse, with everything from folk songs to electronic dance music. While some Lithuanian musicians have embraced international styles, others have focused on preserving and celebrating traditional Lithuanian music. No matter what their approach, though, all Lithuanian musicians have helped to create a rich and vibrant musical culture.
Food
Lithuanian cuisine has many influences, from its neighbors Latvia, Belarus, Poland, and Russia. Some of the staples of Lithuanian cuisine include dark rye bread, various meats (usually pork), potatoes, mushrooms, and berries.
Dairy products are also very popular, particularly in the form of curd cheese. Beer is also commonly consumed, and many Lithuanians make their own. Lithuania is also home to a type of cold soup called šaltibarščiai, which is made from beetroot juice, cucumbers, dill, and yogurt.
Other popular dishes include cepelinai (large potato dumplings filled with meat), kugelis (a baked potato pudding), and šakotis (a type of layered cake). For those with a sweet tooth, Lithuania is a paradise. There are also many delicious vegan options in this Vilnius food guide, including an amazing cat cafe.
Language
Lithuanian is the oldest surviving Indo-European language, and one of the oldest languages in the world. The official language of Lithuania is the Lithuanian language, which belongs to the Baltic branch of the Indo-European language family. It is closely related to Latvian, another Baltic language, as well as to a number of Slavic languages. Lithuanian is written in a Latin-based alphabet and has a rich literary tradition. For centuries, it was the language of choice for educated people in much of Eastern Europe. In the early 21st century, however, Lithuanian is spoken primarily in Lithuania itself, where it is the native tongue of more than 3 million people. There are also several hundred thousand speakers of Lithuanian in other countries, including Belarus, Latvia, Poland, and Russia.
Vilnius
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is one of the greenest cities in Europe with more than 46 percent of its area dedicated to green space. Vilnius has a long and storied history. Founded in the 14th century, it served as the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania for centuries. Today, it is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, medieval Old Town and lively nightlife scene. Vilnius is also home to several cultural institutions, including the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre, the National Museum of Lithuania and the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre. With its rich heritage and vibrant culture, Vilnius is an exciting city to explore.
Founded in 1579, Vilnius University is the oldest university in the Baltic States and one of the oldest in Northern Europe. It is also the largest university in Lithuania, with over 19,000 students enrolled. The main campus is located in the heart of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, and has gorgeous architecture.
Lakes
There are more than 3,000 lakes in Lithuania – more per square kilometer than any other country in the world.
Jerusalem of the North
Vilnius has been called the “Jerusalem of the North” for centuries, due to the large number of Lithuanian Jews, and their and cultural influence. The city has a long history of religious tolerance, and its Jewish community has always been an integral part of life in Vilnius. Today, the city is home to a vibrant and diverse culture, with something to offer everyone. From its stunning architectural landmarks to its lively nightlife, Vilnius is a truly unique city. And with its recent designation as the European Capital of Culture, there’s never been a better time to visit.
Euro
Although it’s now part of the European Union, Lithuania was the last country in Europe to adopt the euro as its currency in 2015. Now, Euros are the currency of Lithuania.
Hot Air Balloons
Lithuania has more hot air balloons per capita than anywhere else in the world – with one balloon for every 1,000 people.
Easter Bunny
On Easter morning, the Easter Bunny arrives early, before the sun is even up. He has a special delivery for all the good children in Lithuania who have been waiting patiently for his arrival. He hops around to each child’s house and leaves a basket of Easter eggs and bunny-shaped cookies. The Easter Bunny knows that every child has been good this year, so he makes sure that everyone gets a treat. The children are always so excited to find their baskets filled with goodies from the Easter Bunny. It’s a tradition that they look forward to every year.
The Easter bunny is also known as the Easter “granny”. On Easter Sunday, a grandmother or elderly woman will hide a basket of Easter eggs in the house or garden, and the children will have to find them. This tradition is said to date back to pagan times, when eggs were symbols of spring and fertility. Today, the Easter granny is a cherished tradition that helps to bring families together at this special time of year.
Basketball
Basketball is the most popular sport in Lithuania – with the national team having won three Olympic bronze medals (in 1992, 1996, and 2000). Lithuanian legend Arvydas Sabonis is considered one of the best NBA players of all time (although he only played seven seasons due to injuries).
National Parks
Although it’s a small country, Lithuania has five national parks and thirty regional parks – covering nearly 9% of its territory.
Independence Days
Lithuania has two independence days! Every year on February 16, they celebrate Lithuanian Independence Day (Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania) – marking the anniversary of when they declared independence from Russia in 1918 (although they didn’t regain full sovereignty until 1991 when the USSR collapsed).
Then they celebrate another independence day on March 11. This is called the Day of Restitution of Lithuania’s Independence.
Lithuania National Scent
Lithuania is the only nation that has a national scent. The scent of Lithuania is a blend of citrus and floral notes, with a hint of musk. The top note is orange blossom, followed by neroli and jasmine. The base notes are musk and amber. This scent is said to represent the country’s natural beauty, as well as its warm-hearted people. Lithuania has a long history of producing high-quality fragrances, and its perfumes are prized for their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance. The national scent is often used in wedding bouquets, as it is thought to bring good luck to newlyweds. In recent years, Lithuania’s national scent has become increasingly popular with foreigners, who appreciate its unique aroma and associations with a bygone era.
Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth
The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was a unique political system that functioned for over two centuries. The Commonwealth was characterized by religious tolerance, a strong central government, and an elective monarchy. The Commonwealth was also one of the largest states in Europe, stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. However, the Commonwealth began to unravel in the 18th century, due to internal strife and foreign invasions. The final nail in the coffin came when Russia, Prussia, and Austria partitioned the Commonwealth in 1772. Although the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth no longer exists, its legacy continues to be felt in Poland and Lithuania today.
Stelmuze Oak
The Stelmuze Oak is a the oldest oak tree in Lithuania, and one of the oldest in Europe. It is estimated that it is between 1500 and 2000 years old. The oldest tree is so old that its trunk is hollow, and it is said to be the center point of worship of Perkunas by pagans historically. The Stelmuze Oak is a popular tourist destination, and many people come to see the tree every year. If you’re ever in Lithuania, be sure to visit this amazing natural wonder.
Juozapines Hill
Juozapines Hill is formerly the highest point in Lithuania, and is located in the city of Vilnius. It is one of the seven hills that the city is built on and is the highest point in the city centre. The hill has a long history and was once the site of a castle that was destroyed in the 14th century. Today, Juozapines Hill is a popular spot for visitors to the city, as it offers stunning views of Vilnius and its surroundings. There is also a small chapel located at the top of the hill, which is said to be built on the spot where St. John the Baptist was beheaded. Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to enjoy a beautiful view, Juozapines Hill is well worth a visit.
Longest River
The Nemunas River is the longest river in Lithuania, and one of the longest rivers in Europe, flowing for over 900 miles through Lithuania, Belarus, and Russia. The river begins in the forests of eastern Lithuania, where it winds its way through remote villages and dense forests. As it enters Belarus, the Nemunas River grows wider and slower, making its way through farmland and small towns. Finally, the Nemunas River reaches Russia, where it joins the Volga River and empties into the Caspian Sea. Along its journey, the Nemunas River provides an important source of transportation and trade for the countries it flows through. It is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and sturgeon. The Nemunas River is a vital part of the European landscape, and its importance will continue to grow in the years to come.
UNESCO world heritage site
Lithuania has four UNESCO world heritage sites, Vilnius Historic Center, Curonian Spit, Keranave Archaeological Site, and Struve Geodetic Arc.
Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit is a narrow piece of land that extends for 98 miles along the coast of Lithuania and Kaliningrad Oblast. It is home to a unique ecosystem, as well as a variety of plant and animal species. The Spit is also a popular tourist destination, due to its sandy beaches, dunes, and forests. The Curonian Spit has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence indicates that the first people to settle on the Spit were hunter-gatherers who arrived during the Mesolithic period. Since then, the Spit has been home to many different cultures, including the Slavs, Germans, Lithuanians, and Russians. TheCuronian Spit is currently home to a population of around 2,700 people. The majority of residents are ethnic Lithuanians, although there is also a significant community of Kaliningraders (residents of Kaliningrad Oblast). The main economic activities on the Spit are tourism and fishing. However, due to its fragile ecosystem, the Curonian Spit is strictly protected by national and international laws. As a result, only a small amount of development is allowed on the Spit, in order to minimize its impact on the environment.
The Singing Revolution
Lithuania was a part of the so-called singing revolution in 1988. The Lithuanian part of the Singing Revolution was based on a group of 35 intellectuals and artists who called themselves Sąjūdis. They supported the perestroika and glasnost processes in 1988.
Conclusion
Lithuania is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture, beautiful landscape, and plenty of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring its many parks or learning about its unique Easter traditions, there are plenty of reasons to add Lithuania to your travel bucket list.
The post Interesting Facts About Lithuania That Will Make You Want to Visit appeared first on Mahalo Music Mag.
