5 things to do in Birzai, Lithuania

TOP 5: THINGS TO DO IN BIRŽAI

My hometown Biržai is one of the oldest towns in Lithuania. It‘s situated in the northern part of the country, at the confluence of two rivers Apaščia and Agluona, and lies between the lakes of Širvėna and Kilučiai. Despite of the fact that it‘s not a big city (~14 000 inhabitants), it has rich history, unique nature and interesting culture to offer. So now, I‘ll introduce you to the TOP 5 of things which are a must to do for everyone who comes to Biržai!

READ A BOOK IN THE BIRŽAI CASTLE!

Biržai castle is a bastion building of XVI century. Over a period of four centuries it was built and restored three times (due to the fights with Sweden) . Nowadays, inside you can find the museum and the library. It’s a nice place to read some old mysterious book while sitting by the window with a spectacular view to Širvėna lake or beautiful castle’s park.

RIDE A LION BY THE ASTRAVAS MANOR!

Astravas Manor is a romanticism epoch building. It was a property of Tyszkiewicz family and now it’s turned into a sewing factory office. Two powerful concrete lions guard the entrance of this manor; however, even little kids are not scared to climb on their backs to take funny pictures or act that they’re warriors.

GET DRUNK ON THE “BEER WAY”!

Biržai is the land of strong Lithuanian beer. „Biržų alus“ is the oldest brewery in Lithuania (1686), and we also have five more. „Rinkuškiai“ brewery offers a special excursion, called „Beer Way“ during which you can watch the process of beer making, listen to Lithuanian folk songs and , of course, challenge yourself in drinking as much of this „golden nectar“ as you can!

WATCH THE SUNSET ON THE ASTRAVAS BRIDGE!

Astravas Bridge is the longest pedestrian bridge in Lithuania (525m). It crosses the lake Širvėna, which is, in fact, a “fake” body of water created after damming two rivers. It’s a popular place within local fishermen, as well as youth, who gathers there to watch the sunset with a cup of tea or glass of vine in their hands.

GET DOWN INTO A SINKHOLE!From earliest times nature has been playing tricks on the region, the land suddenly disappearing in deep karst sinkholes, forming in the forests, fields, under the houses, and in one case, even under the cow (famous Cow‘s Hole). Later they naturally get overgrown with trees, bushes and grass, or turns into little lakes. This unique phenomenon is definately worth exploring!

Article by: Ieva Medinyte