Lithuanian Learning Community and Resources

Dear community members,

In today blog post, you will get a chance to learn more about the ethnographic regions of Lithuania!

It is considered that there are five ethnographic regions in the country – Dzukija (Dzūkija), Aukstaitija (Aukštaitija), Suvalkija, Samogitia or Zemaitija (Žemaitija) and Lithuania Minor (Mažoji Lietuva). While these regions do not have official borders and are quite interconnected, each of them has its own peculiarities and differences, which I will try to briefly overview in the text.

So, let’s begin.

Dzukija (Dzūkija)

Located in the southeastern part of Lithuania, this region is covering a territory, spreading down from the northern part of the Vilnius county towards the border territories with Belarus and Poland.

This region is known for its diversity of languages, ethnicities and cultures. While the southwestern part of Dzukija is mostly populated by native Lithuanian speakers who are using Southern Aukstaitian (also known as Dzukian) dialect, the eastern part of the region is mostly populated by the Polish speaking ethnic groups. In the meantime, Vilnius, which is geographically considered as part of Dzukija region, is home for endless ethnic groups, being a mixture of different cultures and nationalities.

Generally, this region is mostly associated with the wonderful forests and nature. Due to this, Dzukija is a hotspot destination for the mushroom and berry pickers, with the annual mushroom picking competitions attracting locals and visitors from around the country. It is also known for its wooden architecture, visible all around the different villages.

If you are willing to travel around this region, you will have plenty of places to choose from. While capital city of Vilnius might not represent the most authentic aura of Dzukija, do not hesitate to travel around the smaller cities such as Trakai, Alytus, Varena (Varėna) or Lazdijai.

Besides, I would also suggest taking a train ride from Vilnius and traveling to the small village of Marcinkonys, which contains many authentic buildings of wooden architecture and is close to the Cepkeliai (Čepkeliai) Marsh, largest bogland nature reserve in the country.

Aukstaitija (Aukštaitija)

Aukstaitija is a region in northeastern Lithuania known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty.

Aukstaitija is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including numerous lakes, forests, and hills. Some of the most notable natural attractions in the region include the Labanoras Regional Park and the Aukstaitija National Park. The region is also home to several historic sites and cultural landmarks, such as Alanta estate and Ginuciai (Ginučiai) Water Mill.

Geographically, Aukstaitija covers a large area of Lithuania, including parts of the districts of Utena, Panevezys (Panevėžys) and Anyksciai (Anykščiai). The region is home to numerous lakes, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Overall, Aukstaitija is a region of great natural and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of Lithuania's rich heritage and traditions.

Suvalkija

Suvalkija is a region located in southern Lithuania, bordering Poland to the south. It is named after the historic town of Suwałki, which is now part of Poland.

Suvalkija is known for its picturesque countryside, dotted with rolling hills, forests, and fields. Some of the most notable natural attractions in the region include the Nemunas River, the Sesupe (Šešupė) River, and the Veisiejai Regional Park.

The region has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditions and customs that have been preserved over the centuries. Many mansions have been preserved here and are open for visitors. Contemporary art projects have also made this region famous around the country and beyond. When visiting the city of Marijampole (Marijampolė), pay attention to all the drawings on the buildings as well as other art installations, located in various neighborhoods.

Overall, Suvalkija is a charming and picturesque region of Lithuania, with a rich cultural heritage and a warm and welcoming people. It is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and diversity of Lithuania's southern countryside.

Lithuania Minor

Lithuania Minor (or Mažoji Lietuva in Lithuanian) is a historical region in the western part of Lithuania, bordering the Baltic Sea and the Kaliningrad Oblast of Russia.

Lithuania Minor has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by both Lithuanian and Germanic cultures. The region was inhabited by the Baltic tribes of Skalvians and Nadruvians in ancient times, and later came under the rule of the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century. During this time, many Germans settled in the region, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture, language, and customs of the area.

Some of the most notable cultural landmarks in Lithuania Minor include the cities of Klaipėda (Klaipeda) and Šilutė (Silute) and well as the Nemunas Delta Regional Park. The region is also famous for its fishing traditions, so do not miss a chance to try a local smoked fish or fish stew.

Today, Lithuania Minor is part of the Klaipėda County, which is one of the ten counties of Lithuania. The region is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to explore its beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage.

Žemaitija (Samogitia)

Samogitia (also known as Žemaitija in Lithuanian) is a historical region located in the western part of Lithuania.

Samogitia is known for its picturesque landscape, which includes rolling hills, forests, and numerous rivers and lakes. Lake Plateliai and the surrounding area is a famous destination for diving, swimming and camping.

The region is also known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and cuisine. Some of the most notable cultural landmarks in Samogitia include the Kretinga Manor, the Plunge (Plungė) Manor, and the city of Telsiai (Telšiai). One more famous cultural site is the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site located near the city of Siauliai (Šiauliai). The hill is covered in thousands of crosses of all shapes and sizes, left there by visitors as a symbol of faith and hope.

Samogitia is also notorious as being the last European land to accept the Christianity, with pagan influence still visible in the regions traditions and mythology. Samogitian language is now considered as a separate language (while still being very much related to standard Lithuanian language) which makes the region even more unique within the country’s context. If you will be trying to speak with locals while visiting, it might be quite challenging to follow the conversation, but you might be sure, that your efforts to use Lithuanian language will be much appreciated.

Which of these regions would you like to visit the most? Or maybe you have already looking forward to learning one of the local dialects of Lithuanian language? Let’s talk about it in the Living Abroad forum!

Yours,

Gytis

OLS Lithuanian language community manager

All photos are taken from the free photo stock http://www.realisbeautifulstock.lt/lt.