Events Trakai Route map

Pilgrimage – route “35 kilometres of prayer” (events based on the liturgical calendar)

The pilgrimage, which begins with a farewell prayer at the Gate of Dawn, was first organised in 2005. The organiser of the annual traditional pilgrimage is the Vilnius Archdiocesan Youth Centre. The pilgrimage is organised in the first half of September. It is a 35-kilometre journey of joy, prayer, communion, fatigue, hymns of praise and the most beautiful autumn adventure. Young people from parishes in Vilnius and other cities take part in the pilgrimage. The pilgrims are accompanied by a large number of high-ranking Church hierarchs, priests and nuns. The number of people taking part in the pilgrimage has been growing every year, with some of the pilgrims taking part in the pilgrimage for many years, and some even from the first pilgrimage. Each year, a different slogan is chosen. Organisers of the march encourage young people to take action. These traditional pilgrimages show that young people need active forms, a concrete way of being, which requires their strength and initiative, and which, in today's world, develops endurance, motivation and the experience of communion.

The hike begins with a farewell prayer at the Gate of Dawn. During the ceremony, all the pilgrims gather outside the gate, and the priest begins the prayer from the balcony and blesses all the pilgrims. The group of pilgrims will then follow the planned route through the streets of Vilnius towards Trakai. The first destination is a stop at the Lentvaris Church of the Epiphany of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Here, the marchers have lunch and take part in the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. From the church of Lentvaris, pilgrims travel to Trakai, where they attend Mass in Trakai Basilica followed by an evening concert.

1. The Gate of Dawn was first mentioned in 1514. The miraculous painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy in the Chapel of the Gate of Dawn is one of the most famous Renaissance paintings in Lithuania. It is also known as the Madonna of the Gate of Dawn or the Madonna of Vilnius. It was painted especially for this chapel in the 17th century, after a model by the Dutch painter Martin de Vos. The painting was venerated and considered miraculous by Catholics, Orthodox and Uniates alike. It is known all over the world, and copies are kept in churches in many countries. For example, in Paris at St Severin's Church, and in many Polish churches.

2. The Lentvaris Church of the Epiphany of the Blessed Virgin Mary is of rare neo-Romanesque beauty. The decor of the Lentvaris church is worthy of special attention. The walls of the church decorated with frescoes and a special décor of sgraffito are a rarity in Lithuania! Incidentally, the decoration work took place at the very midst of the Second World War, when the materials needed were considered strategic, wartime-only raw materials.

3. The Church of the Holy Trinity of Old Trakai. Church of the Virgin Mary and St. Benedict is a church of impressive architecture that has grown on the site of an old monastery. With four towers rising above the front façade, it features a neo-Gothic solemnity. Visitors are invited to admire the treasure stored in the church – the ornate altars with the statues of the saints

4. Vytautas the Great Road –which leads to the Duke's birthplace – the Old Trakai Castle, pays tribute to the illustrious achievements of the Lithuanian ruler. Nine wayside shrines have been erected to symbolise important stages in the life of Duke Vytautas the Great. The symbolic Vytautas the Great Road was introduced to the public in 2000, on the 570th anniversary of the Duke's death.

5. Trakai Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary – in 2017 it was consecrated as a basilica, a title only given to houses of prayer of special significance. The Basilica preserves a wealth of sacral and artistic treasures: easel paintings, memorial monuments, various reliquaries, goblets, 18th-century candlesticks, eternal flame lamp, etc. The image of the Mother of God, famous for its miracles and graces, is worthy of special attention.

Trakai Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary is famous for the painting of Our Lady, the Patroness of Lithuania, which testifies to the deep tradition of perceiving Lithuania as a land of Mary's intercession and protection. The painting is crowned, covered with artistic fittings and surrounded by numerous votive offerings, testifying to the fact that this painting of the Mother of God has been attracting pilgrims for centuries.

6. Offer to dine out in a less noisy environment (takeaway – opportunity to eat by the lake, etc.) Pilgrimages are journeys of concentration, and often one does not want the sacrality and concentration to be distracted.

Christmas ethno-workshop in Trakai route “Christmas Workshop in Trakai” (ethno-parties, educational activities)

In Trakai, the Christmas cycle of events includes a Christmas ethno-workshop – the Christmas Factory – at the Trakai Culture Palace, which takes place four weekends after the opening celebration of the event Trakai – the capital city of Santa Claus. The Christmas Factory includes activities in different areas. Activities are supplemented and changing every year. Various educational activities are facilitated by craftsmen from Trakai region and abroad. Professional artists and painters teach theatre and singing arts. There are activities for everyone: families with children, young people, elders and seniors. The Trakai Region Traditional Crafts Centre also offers various educational programmes during the Christmas period.

1. Getting acquainted with the traditional craft of the Trakai region – the production of a customary candle – a customary candle in Lithuanian customs, rites and spells. The programme is designed to develop cognitive and artistic competences through the ancient craft of candle-making, to reveal the uniqueness of our country's ethical culture, its archaic character and inexhaustible creativity. A candle having many names and performing many jobs is cast out and, once consecrated, begins its life. During the session, we will make candles by helping each other, using the arc casting method.

2. Christmas programmes for families such as the Christmas Train, Journey to Santa Claus, etc., and participation in ethno-workshops – activities for the whole family during the Christmas period.

3. Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary – consecrated as a basilica in 2017, a title only given to houses of prayer of special significance. The Basilica preserves a wealth of sacral and artistic treasures: easel paintings, memorial monuments, various reliquaries, goblets, 18th-century candlesticks, eternal flame lamp, etc. The image of the Mother of God, famous for its miracles and graces, is worthy of special attention.

4. Offer to taste Lithuanian cuisine. Over the centuries, a wide variety of dishes have found their way onto Lithuanian cuisine. Whether it's the famous zeppelins, vedarai, other potato dishes, the elaborate dishes of the nobility, modern traditions or grandmothers' recipes, the variety will surprise even those who think they've tasted it all. In the past, and even today, different regions of Lithuania are home to distinctive dishes and different ways of preparing the same dish.

5. The Hill of Angels is a hill made up of various sculptures of angels, almost 5 metres high, symbolising fundamental Christian values. The information stand next to the Hill of Angels claims this is the site of continuation of some of the spiritual buildings of Trakai – Trakai Orthodox Church of Our Lady, the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Trakai Island Castle the of Trakai. Angel Hill and the Angel Trail, which stretches onwards, are like a symbolic crown for Trakai.

6. With a safe layer of ice, everyone will be able to enjoy fun winter activities on ice. Active recreation, adrenaline, hot tea and blissful nature in winter are the perfect combination for those looking for a break from everyday life.

7. SPA and traditional wellness treatments – nothing warms you up in the cold like a sauna and bathing birch-rod. Those who look for this traditional wellness treatment will not regret coming to Trakai.

Routes of the Town Hall Market and the Kopūstinė Fair (traditional markets)

Route of the Town Hall Market “Tradition and Heritage Trails”

Town Hall Market is a traditional event of the Association, which has been a patented event promoting Trakai since 2015. St. Nepomuk's wayside shrine stands at the intersection of Karaimų and Vytauto Streets, in the centre of the former market, or Town Hall Square. The first mention of the wayside shrine in Trakai dates back to 1622, when it was used as a bulletin board, but it only took on its present appearance in the early 19th century, when a sculpture of Saint John of Nepomuk was erected on the top of the column. Today, it emphasises and reminds us of the historical centre of Trakai, where large markets, fairs and festivals used to take place. The Town Hall Market takes place during the Trakai Summer festival, thus the Discover Trakai route would be particularly close to this market. Only, as befits a market, educational and food tasting activities should be included.

1. Trakai Castle is a Gothic castle in Trakai, on the Castle Island of Lake Galvė, with a pedestrian bridge leading to it. In the 15th century, this castle was one of the residences of the rulers of the GDL. It is the only castle in Eastern Europe built on an island surrounded by water and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lithuania.

2. Learn about the traditional crafts of the Trakai region – baking buckwheat babka and Dzūkai traditions. Buckwheat babka was, and still is, a special dish in the barren lands of Dzūkija. This is a round, buckwheat-flour, festive Dzūkija cake, unique to the Dzūkija region. During the education, the traditions of baking babka are learnt, and together with the hostess the babka is prepared and baked. While the babka is being baked, the audience listens to a story about the origin of buckwheat in Lithuania, and learns Dzūkai songs and musical games. After baking, the babka is tasted (you can take it with you). Participants receive a beginner's craftsman's certificate.

3. Aukų Hill – the highest point of the Trakai Peninsula – a 17-metre high mound on the western shore of Lake Luka (or Bernardinai) on the western shore of the peninsula. The hill overlooks a magnificent view of the spectacular lake landscape and Trakai Island Castle.

4. The Hill of Angels is a hill made up of various sculptures of angels, almost 5 metres high, symbolising fundamental Christian values. The information stand next to the Hill of Angels claims this is the site of continuation of some of the spiritual buildings of Trakai – Trakai Orthodox Church of Our Lady, the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Trakai Island Castle the of Trakai. Angel Hill and the Angel Trail, which stretches onwards, are like a symbolic crown for Trakai.

5. A complex of castles and other buildings on the Trakai Peninsula testifies to the economic and military power of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The castle was one of the largest and most important defensive castles of its time.

6. Trakai Old Town (optional: Kenessa, Former Post Office of the Russian Empire, Šapšalas Karaite People's Museum, Orthodox Church of the Nativity of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary) is distinguished from other Lithuanian towns primarily by its unique natural geographical position. It is a town among lakes. Karaites and Lithuanians, Tatars and Orthodox Christians have coexisted here since the beginning of time, and this has been reflected in the architecture for centuries.

7. Sailing, windsurfing, rowing entertainment – water activities.

Route of the Kopūstinė Market “Summer Goods in Trakai”

In mid-August, Lithuanians have always celebrated the turn of summer and autumn, when the most important field work has been done, crops have been harvested, berries and fruits have been picked, and jams have been made. Ascension Feast (Kopūstinė in Dzūkija) is a day of farewell to flowers and herbs, a celebration of the maturity of the harvest, satiation, and gratitude. This is the time of year when cabbages have evolved. It is important that they grow hard so that worms do not damage them. The fair takes place on an island between the town and the castle, often referred to by locals as Kopūstinė, because that's where the Karaites used to grow cabbage. Those who have been to Trakai during the Ascension Feast are well aware that Ascension in Trakai is not only about the Kopūstinė fair, but also about the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the spectacular procession along the streets of Trakai. It is a celebration full of sacredness, community and thanksgiving.

1. Trakai Basilica and the painting of the Mother of God – Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary was consecrated as a basilica in 2017.This title is only given to houses of prayer of special significance. The Basilica preserves a wealth of sacral and artistic treasures: easel paintings, memorial monuments, various reliquaries, goblets, 18th-century candlesticks, eternal flame lamp, etc. The image of the Mother of God, famous for its miracles and graces, is worthy of special attention. Trakai Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary is famous for the painting of Our Lady, the Patroness of Lithuania, which testifies to the deep tradition of perceiving Lithuania as a land of Mary's intercession and protection. The painting is crowned, covered with artistic fittings and surrounded by numerous votive offerings, testifying to the fact that this painting of the Mother of God has been attracting pilgrims for centuries.

2. John of Nepomuk wayside shrine is a classical-style wayside shrine with a statue of the patron saint of fishermen and towns surrounded by water is an important and revered symbol for the residents of Trakai region. After the uprising of 1863, the tsarist authorities ordered the statue of the saint to be pulled down and offered a large sum of money for it. It is said that the local population resisted and refused to obey the Tsar's order. However, one scoundrel grabbed an axe and was about to destroy the sculpture when he fell off the ladder and broke his leg. The Chief of Police of Trakai had to call in the Cossacks, who demolished the statue of the saint. In 1935, a new image of St. John of Nepomuk was installed to the wayside shrine.

3. The introduction to the traditional craft of the Trakai region – the baking of Karaite kibinai – is designed to develop cognitive and artistic competences through the culinary heritage of national minorities, and to reveal the uniqueness of national minorities. People of 154 nationalities live in Lithuania. In addition to Lithuanians, who make up about 84.2% of the population, our country is home to Poles, Russians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, Belarusians, Tatars, Karaites, Roma and other nationalities. The latter three nations belong to Lithuania's group of national minorities (those without a state of their own), and each nation has its own traditions. The educational programme is led by a Trakai Karaite woman who teaches how to bake kibinai in accordance with her family's authentic recipe.

4. Trakai Castle is a Gothic castle in Trakai, on the Castle Island of Lake Galvė, with a pedestrian bridge leading to it. In the 15th century, this castle was one of the residences of the rulers of the GDL. It is the only castle in Eastern Europe built on an island surrounded by water and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lithuania.

5. A complex of castles and other buildings on the Trakai Peninsula testifies to the economic and military power of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The castle was one of the largest and most important defensive castles of its time.

6. Old Trakai Castle site and Vytautas the Great Road – Old Trakai Castle – the birthplace of Vytautas the Great. In accordance with the chronicles, in around 1350, the future one of the most famous personalities of Lithuanian history was born in the family of Duke Kęstutis of Trakai and priestess Birutė. During the reign of the Duke Vytautas glorified to this day, the Lithuanian state has expanded from the Baltic to the Black Sea! The Vytautas the Great Road, which leads to the Duke's birthplace – the Old Trakai Castle, pays tribute to the illustrious services of the Lithuanian ruler. Nine wayside shrines have been erected to symbolise important stages in the life of Duke Vytautas the Great. The symbolic Vytautas the Great Road was introduced to the public in 2000, on the 570th anniversary of the Duke's death.

7. SPA and traditional wellness treatments. Invitation to take advantage of the wellness services offered in Trakai region.

8. Offer to taste Lithuanian cuisine. Over the centuries, a wide variety of dishes have found their way onto Lithuanian cuisine. Whether it's the famous zeppelins, vedarai, other potato dishes, the elaborate dishes of the nobility, modern traditions or grandmothers' recipes, the variety will surprise even those who think they've tasted it all. In the past, and even today, different regions of Lithuania are home to distinctive dishes and different ways of preparing the same dish.

Routes of the festivals Kapelų šventė prie ežerėlio (“Chapel Festival at the Lake”) (Onuškis) and Skambėk Lenkų daina (“Sound the Polish Song”) (Rūdiškės) (activities of amateur art groups promoting ethnoculture)

Route of the Chapel Festival at the Lake “From Onuškis to Trakai”

The idea of the traditional band festival Prie Ežerėlio is to present the music of different regions of Lithuania in one festival, to hear performances of folk music bands from the Aukštaitija, Suvalkija, Samogitia, the coastal region and Dzūkija. The bands have been around for decades, some of them have won important awards, participated in competitions and festivals not only in Lithuania, but also abroad, and therefore their performances are very distinctive, reflecting their region and dialect.

The concept of the celebration is to present the music of different regions, therefore the route would be related to the concept of the event – to visit as many different points of interest as possible: from churches and nature to architecture and a harmonious sailing in Lake Galvė.

1. Onuškis Church of Apostles St. Philip and St. James – mentioned in 1526, with features of late classicism and romanticism, built according to the model of Vilnius Cathedral. In 2016, after Lithuania joined the European St. Jacob's Road Network,

2. Onuškis Mikas Petrauskas Square. Onuškis Mikas Petrauskas Square is a unique object in Onuškis – the historic Kipras Petrauskas Square, paved with stones. Since long ago, it has been the venue for festivals, fairs, taverns, tea rooms and shops in the surrounding houses. In 1904-1907 the father of Mikas and Kipras Petrauskas was the organist in Dusmenys. The Petrauskas family had a homestead and land in a beautiful place by a lake near the village of Bakaloriškės. The place is still called Petrauskai.

3. Žuklijai I mound. – The Žuklijai mound is located on a hill shaped like a truncated cone. It is surrounded by the valley and ravines of Lake Vilkokšnis. The slopes are steep, 5-8 m high. The apex site is encircled by a rampart. At the northern foot of the mound are the remains of an ancient settlement.

4. Lithuanian bread baking tradition. Visitors will have a unique opportunity to experience the bread-making tradition. The bread is certified with Lithuanian National Heritage and Culinary Heritage certificates.

5. The Stone of Nikronys with markings is a massive boulder of glacial origin that could accommodate dozen people! Geological studies show that the so-called Scandinavian stones are one of the distinctive features of Aukštadvaris Regional Park. Like many of the massive stones in Lithuania, the Stone of Nikronys is thought to have formed in Scandinavia millions of years ago.

6. The Collapse of Strėva is a mysterious place, the subject of many legends and stories. Ancient Lithuanian mythology tells us that a devil's inn has sunk here. Scientists believe that the gorge is of thermokarst origin, formed around 18 000 years ago.

7. The Devil's Pit is the “queen” of Lithuania's pits, surrounded with legends and tales. It has been declared not only a geological natural monument of the Republic of Lithuania, but also one of the 100 most visited natural monuments in Europe. Velniaduobė – the Devil's Pit, or the Devil's Hole, is a special mythological sacral site. The devil's hole is deep in the forest in the Mergiškės Landscape Reserve, Aukštadvaris Regional Park. The funnel-shaped Devil's Pit is the deepest in Lithuania, about 40 metres deep, with many legends and stories told about its mysteries.

8. Aukštadvaris Upėtakiai Manor and Mickiewicz Oak Tree. The GDL manor house in Aukštadvaris has been mentioned since the 16th century, and it stood on a mound. In 1837, A. Malevskis built the present manor house with a park and trout ponds, which has been preserved until today. The Malevskis family owned the manor until the First World War. Aukštadvaris Manor was expropriated by the Soviet authorities in 1940, at that time it belonged to Tadas and Vladas Mongirdas (375.99 ha).[1]| After the Second World War, a tuberculosis hospital was established on the estate. After the restoration of independence, the manor was returned to the family of the former owners, the Mongirdas. One of the oaks in the manor's garden is known as the Adam Mickiewicz Oak (natural monument about 20 m high, 4.4 m in circumference). The philomat P. Malewski was a friend of A. Mickiewicz, the poet often visited Aukštadvaris, and liked to sit under the oak tree in the park of the manor house, near the castle mound.

9. Kartuvių Hill. On the eastern side of Aukštadvaris, you can see the densely pine-covered Kartuvių Hill, also known as Šiba Hill. In pagan times, there was an alcove and sacrificial ceremonies were held. It is a place of worship for our ancestral gods. During the Peasants' uprising, disobedient serfs, and in 1863 – participants in the uprising were hanged here, whose bodies were then dumped in the Lake Nava in the vicinity. The steep climb up the hill from Trakai is about 100 m. The hill offers a magnificent view of Lake Nava, now the Aukštadvaris water storage facility, which connects a string of five lakes. The height of Kartuvių Hill is 170 metres above sea level.

10. Love Bridge in Aukštadvaris. The beautifully named Love Bridge was built over the old bed of the Verknė River in 1930 on the initiative of the estate owner Mongirdas. Surrounded by magnificent nature, it is a popular destination for visitors and tourists.

11. Aukštadvaris Church. The Church of the Transfiguration of Christ in Aukštadvaris is located in the town of Aukštadvaris, on the north-western shore of Lake Negasčius (Aukštadvaris Pond). Historicist, with neo-Gothic elements. The first church was made of wood, the present one was built in 1910-1913.

12. Strėva Mound. The mound is located on a separate hill on the southern shore of the peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Neperas. The square is oval, elongated. The slopes are steep, 20 m high. The mound is partly destroyed by arable land and overgrown with a sparse mixed forest. Moulded coarse pottery was found near it. The mound dates back to the beginning of the 1st – 2nd millennium.

13. Trakai Island Castle is a Gothic castle in Trakai, on the Castle Island of Lake Galvė, with a pedestrian bridge leading to it. In the 15th century, this castle was one of the residences of the rulers of the GDL. It is the only castle in Eastern Europe built on an island surrounded by water and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lithuania.

14. The Užutrakis Manor House is one of the most outstanding and best preserved manor houses in Lithuania. The manor and park ensemble, established and restored on the shores of Lake Galvė, will give you a flair of the spirit of the 19th-century Lithuanian nobility.

15. Trakai Old Town – (optional: Kenessa, Former Post Office of the Russian Empire, Šapšalas Karaite People's Museum, Orthodox Church of the Nativity of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary) is distinguished from other Lithuanian towns primarily by its unique natural geographical position. Tai – miestas tarp ežerų. Karaites and Lithuanians, Tatars and Orthodox Christians have coexisted here since the beginning of time, and this has been reflected in the architecture for centuries.

16. Offer to taste Lithuanian, Polish, Karaim, Tatar, Georgian cuisine. Food is a path to discovery, and when you can taste so many different cuisines in one town, it's a great pleasure. All the more so as food brings people closer together. Eating a hearty and tasty meal makes us much happier.

17. Evening boat trip on the lake.

Routes of the “Sound the Polish Song” festival

The aim of the “Sound the Polish Song!” festival is to cherish and preserve the authentic traditions and cultural-historical heritage of the Polish nation of Lithuania, to integrate the traditions of the nation into the cultural life of Lithuania, to protect one's own culture, to cherish, propagate and represent the folk and national traditions of one's homeland and abroad, to foster tolerance and respect for the cultures of other peoples, and to promote the intercultural dialogue of Lithuania and national minorities. During the festival, the participants enjoy prayer, a common procession, dancing and singing. It's an event full of cheerful mood and inspiring traditions. It is an ongoing festival that has been running for over 20 years. During this period, the event has already extended to an international level and is welcomed not only by participants, but also by the people of the district. This event is a great opportunity not only to get to know the authentic traditions of the Polish people of Lithuania, but also to visit many wonderful places throughout the Trakai region. Dalliance experiences and a better understanding of community traditions builds respect for communities, tolerance of different cultures and encourages responsible behaviour.

“Along the Trakai Region's Road of Sounding Traditions”

1. Ropėjai forestry. For many years, a “moose” has been resting at the entrance to the territory of the Ropėjai Forest District, where people often stop to take photos. This is where the idea of creating a park for passers-by came from. With sculptures and stands about forests, the work and concerns of foresters. At the entrance you can see large stands telling about the territory of the Trakai Forest Enterprise and a map of the Ropėjai Forest District. Behind them, the path winds its way towards the lodge, but curious visitors will first be greeted by the sculptures The Forest Planter, then The Fireman. The lodge offers shelter from the rain or sun. There are five stands nearby. The first one is “For the Forest Mushroom picker”. It tells you when the first boletus, chanterelles, blueberries and lingonberries appear. Although only a few mushroom species are usually gathered, in fact, there are over 100 species of edible mushrooms. And only a few are highly toxic. Other stands feature information about the forests of Trakai region, forest work, forest flora and fauna. The descriptions are accompanied by photos of the most splendid places, birds (owl, goshawk, thrush), beasts – fox, badger, wild boar, moose, etc.

2. The construction of the Chapel of the Holy Trinity in the village of Gojus. The chapel has a special significance due to the protected relics it houses – religious objects that are highly venerated because of their special meaning. Highlights include the painting of Our Lady of the Health of the Sick, famous for its miraculous powers, the monstrance made of bullets and the 200-page Manuscript of the history of Gojus village and he chapel. It is said you can feel a special fibrillation of the soul and a breath of God's grace at the Gojus Chapel, which encourages one to believe in God's mercy and caring. A sculpture of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception greets those entering the chapel.

3. A guided tour of the village of Tiltai – an introduction to a locally important cultural asset, an architectural ensemble and an ethnographic village.

4. Learn about the traditional crafts of the Trakai region – baking buckwheat babka and Dzūkai traditions. Buckwheat babka was, and still is, a special dish in the barren lands of Dzūkija. This is a round, buckwheat-flour, festive Dzūkija cake, unique to the Dzūkija region. During the education, the traditions of baking babka are learnt, and together with the hostess the babka is prepared and baked. While the babka is being baked, the audience listens to a story about the origin of buckwheat in Lithuania, and learns Dzūkai songs and musical games. After baking, the babka is tasted (you can take it with you). Participants receive a beginner's craftsman's certificate.

5. In 2008 the complex of buildings of Rūdiškės railway station was entered into the Register of Cultural Property of the Republic of Lithuania, unique object code 32170.| It includes buildings in the historicist style: railway station, water tower, residential house with an open wooden porch supported by 4 wooden square pillars.

6. Rūdiškės Church. It is a church in Rūdiškės, 16 km south of Trakai, near the Vilnius-Gardinas railway. Services are held in Lithuanian and Polish. In 1908, the government allowed the construction of a church in Rūdiškės, a branch of the Trakai parish. In 1909, the priest A. Žemaitis installed an altar in the house and started holding services. In 1913, a branch of the Rytas Society was established. The parish was founded in 1921. Priest J. Jurkevičius and his parishioners built the present stone church in 1925-1932. It was renovated in 1980. The church is historicist, with neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic features, with a Latin cross plan, and a single tower. There are 3 naves inside. The churchyard is bricked.

“Along the sounding road of nature treasures in Trakai region”

1. Ropėjai forestry. For many years, a “moose” has been chilling at the entrance to the territory of the Ropėjai Forest District, where people often stop to take photos. This is where the idea of creating a park for passers-by came from. With sculptures and stands about forests, the work and concerns of foresters. At the entrance you can see large stands telling about the territory of the Trakai Forest Enterprise and a map of the Ropėjai Forest District. Behind them, the path winds its way towards the lodge, but curious visitors will first be greeted by the sculptures The Forest Planter, then The Fireman. The lodge offers shelter from the rain or sun. There are five stands nearby. The first one is “For the Forest Mushroom picker”. Other stands feature information about the forests of Trakai region, forest work, forest flora and fauna. The descriptions are accompanied by photos of the most splendid places, birds (owl, goshawk, thrush), beasts – fox, badger, wild boar, moose, etc.

2. The construction of the Chapel of the Holy Trinity in the village of Gojus The chapel has a special significance due to the protected relics it houses – religious objects that are highly venerated because of their special meaning. Highlights include the painting of Our Lady of the Health of the Sick, famous for its miraculous powers, the monstrance made of bullets and the 200-page Manuscript of the history of Gojus village and he chapel. It is said you can feel a special fibrillation of the soul and a breath of God's grace at the Gojus Chapel, which encourages one to believe in God's mercy and caring. A sculpture of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception greets those entering the chapel.

3. Paluknis St. John the Baptist Church is situated 10 km east of Rūdiškės, near the Vilnius-Eišiškės road. A chapel was built in Paluknis in 1794. In 1829, the owner of the Paluknis manor, Jonas Volfgangas, built a new wooden chapel. With the permission of the authorities, in 1904 Mykolas Sadovskis donated the family chapel in Paluknis, other buildings, and two tenths of land to the Vilnius diocese. The parish was founded in 1921. In 1941 the church burnt down. A temporary wooden church was built in 1943. Reconstructed in 1981: lengthened, widened and a tower added. The churchyard contains state-protected art monuments: two 18th-century chasubles and the wooden Pensive Christ sculpture.

4. In 2008, the complex of buildings of Rūdiškės railway station was entered into the Register of Cultural Property of the Republic of Lithuania, unique object code 32170. It includes buildings in the historicist style: railway station, water tower, residential house with an open wooden porch supported by 4 wooden square pillars.

5. Rūdiškės Church. It is a church in Rūdiškės, 16 km south of Trakai, near the Vilnius-Gardinas railway. Services are held in Lithuanian and Polish. In 1908, the government allowed the construction of a church in Rūdiškės, a branch of the Trakai parish. In 1909, the priest A. Žemaitis installed an altar in the house and started holding services. In 1913, a branch of the Rytas Society was established. The parish was founded in 1921. Priest J. Jurkevičius and his parishioners built the present stone church in 1925-1932. It was renovated in 1980. The church is historicist, with neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic features, with a Latin cross plan, and a single tower. There are 3 naves inside. The churchyard is bricked.

6. Žuklijai I Mound – Žuklijai Mound is a hill in the shape of a truncated cone. It is surrounded by the valley and ravines of Lake Vilkokšnis. The slopes are steep, 5-8 m high. The apex site is encircled by a rampart. At the northern foot of the mound are the remains of an ancient settlement.

7. Lithuanian bread baking tradition. Tourists will have a unique opportunity to experience the bread-making tradition.

8. Onuškis Church of Apostles St. Philip and St. James – mentioned in 1526, with features of late classicism and romanticism, built according to the model of Vilnius Cathedral. In 2016, after Lithuania joined the European St. Jacob's Road Network,

9. Onuškis Mikas Petrauskas Square is a unique object in Onuškis – the historic Kipras Petrauskas Square, paved with stones. Since long ago, it has been the venue for festivals, fairs, taverns, tea rooms and shops in the surrounding houses. In 1904-1907 the father of Mikas and Kipras Petrauskas was the organist in Dusmenys. The Petrauskas family had a homestead and land in a beautiful place by a lake near the village of Bakaloriškės. The place is still called Petrauskai.

10. The Stone of Nikronys with markings is a massive boulder of glacial origin that could accommodate dozen people! Geological studies show that the so-called Scandinavian stones are one of the distinctive features of Aukštadvaris Regional Park. Like many of the massive stones in Lithuania, the Stone of Nikronys is thought to have formed in Scandinavia millions of years ago.

11. The Collapse of Strėva is a mysterious place, the subject of many legends and stories. Ancient Lithuanian mythology tells us that a devil's inn has sunk here. Scientists believe that the gorge is of thermokarst origin, formed around 18 000 years ago.

12. The Devil's Pit is the “queen” of Lithuania's pits, surrounded with legends and tales. It has been declared not only a geological natural monument of the Republic of Lithuania, but also one of the 100 most visited natural monuments in Europe. Velniaduobė – the Devil's Pit, or the Devil's Hole, is a special mythological sacral site. The devil's hole is deep in the forest in the Mergiškės Landscape Reserve, Aukštadvaris Regional Park. The funnel-shaped Devil's Pit is the deepest in Lithuania, about 40 metres deep, with many legends and stories told about its mysteries.

13. Aukštadvaris Upėtakiai Manor and Mickiewicz Oak Tree. The GDL manor house in Aukštadvaris has been mentioned since the 16th century, and it stood on a mound. In 1837, A. Malevskis built the present manor house with a park and trout ponds, which has been preserved until today. The Malevskis family owned the manor until the First World War. The Soviet government expropriated Aukštadvaris Manor in 1940, at that time it belonged to Tadas and Vladas Mongirdas (375.99 ha). After the Second World War, a tuberculosis hospital was established on the estate. After the restoration of independence, the manor was returned to the family of the former owners, the Mongirdas. One of the oaks in the manor's garden is known as the Adam Mickiewicz Oak (natural monument about 20 m high, 4.4 m in circumference). The philomat P. Malewski was a friend of A. Mickiewicz, the poet often visited Aukštadvaris, and liked to sit under the oak tree in the park of the manor house, near the castle mound.

14. Kartuvių Hill. On the eastern side of Aukštadvaris town (just before entering the town from Trakai), you will see the densely pine-covered Kartuvių hill, also known as Šiba hill. In pagan times, there was an alcove and sacrificial ceremonies were held. It is a place of worship for our ancestral gods. During the Peasants' uprising, disobedient serfs, and in 1863 – participants in the uprising were hanged here, whose bodies were then dumped in the Lake Nava in the vicinity. The steep ascent from Trakai is about 100 must high.| The hill overlooks a magnificent view of Lake Nava, now the Aukštadvaris Water reservoir, which connects a string of five lakes. The height of Kartuvių Hill is 170 metres above sea level.

15. Love Bridge in Aukštadvaris. The beautifully named Love Bridge was built over the old bed of the Verknė River in 1930 on the initiative of the estate owner Mongirdas. Surrounded by magnificent nature, it is a popular destination for visitors and tourists.

16. Aukštadvaris Church. The Church of the Transfiguration of Christ in Aukštadvaris is located in the town of Aukštadvaris, on the north-western shore of Lake Negasčius (Aukštadvaris Pond). Historicist, with neo-Gothic elements. The first church was made of wood, the present one was built in 1910-1913. – the current church.

17. Strėva Mound. The mound is located on a separate hill on the southern shore of the peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Neperas. The square is oval, elongated. The slopes are steep, 20 m high. The mound is partly destroyed by arable land and overgrown with a sparse mixed forest. Moulded coarse pottery was found near it. The mound dates back to the beginning of the 1st – 2nd millennium.

18. Trakai Island Castle is a Gothic castle in Trakai, on the Castle Island of Lake Galvė, with a pedestrian bridge leading to it. In the 15th century, this castle was one of the residences of the rulers of the GDL. It is the only castle in Eastern Europe built on an island surrounded by water and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lithuania.

19. The Užutrakis Manor house is one of the most outstanding and best preserved manor houses in Lithuania. The manor and park ensemble, established and restored on the shores of Lake Galvė, will give you a flair of the spirit of the 19th-century Lithuanian nobility.

20. Offer to taste Lithuanian, Polish, Karaim, Tatar, Georgian cuisine. Food is a path to discovery, and when you can taste so many different cuisines in one town, it's a great pleasure. All the more so as food brings people closer together. Eating a hearty and tasty meal makes us much happier.

Tourist routes of the Trakai Summer festival (ethno-cultural educational events)

Every year, the Trakai town festival – Trakai Summer – attracts not only citizens and visitors from other Lithuanian cities, but also tourists from abroad into its whirlwind of fun. The origins of the celebration date back to 1990, when the pastor of Trakai consecrated the St. John of Nepomuk wayside shrine. Then the first Trakai town festival took place then. Neither the economic blockade, nor the rain or wind prevented the townspeople from coming together, enjoying themselves and having fun. The celebrations began with a Mass in the church of St. Vytautas the Great, then proceeded to the wayside shrine where people placed flowers and candles, cited poems and sang songs. This was followed by invitations to the second, third and subsequent town festivals, and so year after year.

The three-day event, full of fun, colour, art festivals, attractions, entertainment, fun music and a cheerful mood, is a great opportunity to introduce the participants to both the intangible and tangible cultural heritage of Trakai district.

A tourist route for each day would offer to get to know the Trakai region better and to spread the word about the region not only in Lithuania, but also abroad. Some routes are suitable for walking, some require a bike or a car.

Day 1 route “Discover Trakai”

The route starts with the Trakai Castle, a masterpiece of Lithuanian medieval defensive architecture, and ends in the bustling old town of Trakai. The route is designed to ensure that all points of interest are along the route for every traveller, and allowing to take a break there are places to eat or even get health and beauty treatments. It is important to remember that health tourism is one of the fastest growing types of tourism. The current and forecast growth of the global health tourism market is about 30–35 per cent annually.

One of the fun attractions that will help to better remember Trakai and its main symbol Trakai Castle could be an automated camera (Fig. 8). As the person approaches Trakai Castle, the motion detectors are triggered and a voice comes over the loudspeaker to welcome the visitors at Trakai Castle. It offers to take a photo with this architectural masterpiece. The point where the visitor should stand is marked, and when the green button is pressed, the countdown starts, e.g. 10 sec. Then, the flash goes off and the visitor is photographed. The photos are uploaded to a website (e.g. exploretrakaivilnius.lt) and stored for 20 days. Visitors can download the photos by visiting this page. The effect is twofold: not only does it create entertainment, but also brings more traffic to the website and reaches a wider audience.

2. Aukų Hill is one of the highest places on the Trakai Peninsula – a 17-metre-high mound on the western shore of the Lake Luka (or Bernardinai) on the western shore of the peninsula. The hill overlooks a magnificent view of the spectacular lake landscape and Trakai Island Castle.

3. A complex of castles and other buildings on the Trakai Peninsula testifies to the economic and military power of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The castle was one of the largest and most important defensive castles of its time.

4. Trakai Old Town (optional: Kenessa, Former Post Office of the Russian Empire, Šapšalas Karaite People's Museum, Orthodox Church of the Nativity of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary) is distinguished from other Lithuanian towns primarily by its unique natural geographical position. Tai – miestas tarp ežerų. Karaites and Lithuanians, Tatars and Orthodox Christians have coexisted here since the beginning of time, and this has been reflected in the architecture for centuries.

4. Invitation to taste Karaite cuisine. Although Karaite cuisine reflects the experience of many generations, many people associate it only with kibinas pastry and far from everyone knows exactly what a kibinas Unless the kibinas is made from yeast dough and stuffed with chopped lamb or beef, it is unlikely that the meat pastry can be called a kibinas. Karaite cuisine has provided Lithuanians with many interesting and delicious dishes. Everyone can taste Karaite cuisine and hear many interesting stories about it at the Trakai Summer Festival in Trakai. Nowhere else, but in this town, there is no shortage of places to stop by for a delicious Karaite meal.

5. Wellness services are procedures performed and/or supervised by qualified specialists in specially equipped facilities, which require the use of water or are intended to improve physical and mental health, prevent possible diseases, to relax, promote well-being, beautify and pamper the body. Invitation to take advantage of the wellness services offered in Trakai region.

Day 2 route “Treasures of nature and architecture of Trakai district”

The second day's route will also involve discoveries – the architecture and nature of the Trakai region. The route should start from the Užutrakis Manor leaving no one indifferent, and end at the mosque of the village of Keturiasdešimt Totorių (“Forty Tatars”).

1. Užutrakis Manor is one of the most remarkable and best preserved manors in Lithuania. The manor and park ensemble, established and restored on the shores of Lake Galvė, will give you flair of the 19th-century Lithuanian nobility.

2. Bražuolė Mound – the mound dates back to the end of the 1st millennium BC – the 14th century. The mound is located in the southern part of a massive hill on the left bank of the Bražuolė River. To the north of the mound, on the same hill, there are 16-metre-high castle surroundings protected by steep natural slopes. 200 m southeast of the mound, on the other side of a deep valley, on a spot of 0.5 ha, there is a settlement at the foot of the mound, where clay plaster and burnt stones were found. There is a 9th – 12th century mound cemetery and an early 2nd millennium ancient cemetery with burnt graves on the territory of the mound.

3. The Hill of Angels is a hill made up of various sculptures of angels, almost 5 metres high, symbolising the fundamental Christian values. The information stand next to the Hill of Angels claims this is the site of continuation of some of the spiritual buildings of Trakai – Trakai Orthodox Church of Our Lady, the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Trakai Island Castle the of Trakai. Angel Hill and the Angel Trail, which stretches onwards, are like a symbolic crown for Trakai.

4. Rykantai St. Trinity Church is one of the oldest churches in Trakai district. It was built in 1585 by the owner of Rykantai Manor, A.Tolvaišas. At that time, even those who had visited the most important cities in Europe were amazed by the beauty of the church. Today, the church is included in the Oginski Cultural Route.

Day 3 route “Day of Sacrality and Peace”

As the bustle of the festival gradually subsides, the feeling of sacredness and nature would allow the impressions to fall into place and harmoniously conclude the Trakai Summer festival. The start of the route coincides with the most frequent part of the opening of the festival programme – the Holy Mass at the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

1. Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Sunday Mass) – consecrated as a basilica in 2017, – this title only given to houses of prayer with special significance. The Basilica preserves a wealth of sacral and artistic treasures: easel paintings, memorial monuments, various reliquaries, goblets, 18th-century candlesticks, eternal flame lamp, etc. The image of the Mother of God, famous for its miracles and graces, is worthy of special attention.

2. The Museum of Sacred Art offers visitors to see church attributes of sacral and artistic value, religious paintings, and monks' household items. The former monastery complex has been converted into a space for exhibiting valuable works. Today, the exhibition of church art consists of more than 200 liturgical articles, valuable works of fine art, including an 18th-century monstrance adorned with the image of the miraculous Trakai Mother of God and Child, etc.

3. John of Nepomuk wayside shrine is a classical-style wayside shrine with a statue of the patron saint of fishermen and towns surrounded by water is an important and revered symbol for the residents of Trakai region. After the uprising of 1863, the tsarist authorities ordered the statue of the saint to be pulled down and offered a large sum of money for it. It is said that the local population resisted and refused to obey the Tsar's order. However, one scoundrel grabbed an axe and was about to destroy the sculpture when he fell off the ladder and broke his leg. The Chief of Police of Trakai had to call in the Cossacks, who demolished the statue of the saint. In 1935, a new image of St. John of Nepomuk was installed to the wayside shrine.

4. Invitation to taste Lithuanian/Polish cuisine. The histories of the Polish and Lithuanian peoples are closely intertwined, which is why people sometimes talk about the influence of one on the other. The cuisine is no exception. Dishes do have similarities: hearty, thick, nutritious and fatty. Both Lithuanians and Poles love a variety of grain and potato dishes, and find it hard to imagine their tables without meat. And what about the differences? There are plenty of them – no matter how many similarities there are, every cuisine is different and unique, it's just a matter of discovering those differences!

5. Trakai Orthodox Church – it was decided to build the church in Trakai in 1861, and in 1862 it was already consecrated, giving it the name of the former (burnt down at the end of the eighteenth century) Church of the Blessed Mother of God at the southern end of the town.

6. The Church of the Holy Trinity of Old Trakai. Church of the Virgin Mary and St. Benedict – a church of impressive architecture that emerged on the site of an old monastery. With four towers rising above the front façade, it features a neo-Gothic solemnity. Visitors are invited to see the treasure trove of ornate altars with paintings of saints.

7. The Vytautas the Great Road is a symbol of respect to the famous achievements of the Lithuanian ruler, leading to the Duke's birthplace – the Old Trakai Castle. Nine wayside shrines have been erected to symbolise important stages in the life of Duke Vytautas the Great. The symbolic Vytautas the Great Road was introduced to the public in 2000, on the 570th anniversary of the Duke's death.

8. Varnikai Cognitive Trail – a 5 km-long nature trail meandering through the Varnikai Botanical and Zoological Reserve offers nature lovers to explore the spectacular nature and admire its biodiversity.

9. The Lentvaris Church of the Epiphany of the Blessed Virgin Mary is of rare neo-Romanesque beauty. The decor of the Lentvaris church is worthy of special attention. The walls of the church decorated with frescoes and a special décor of sgraffito are a rarity in Lithuania! Incidentally, the decoration work took place at the very midst of the Second World War, when the materials needed were considered strategic, wartime-only raw materials.

10. The Hill of Angels is a hill made up of various sculptures of angels, almost 5 metres high, symbolising fundamental Christian values. The information stand next to the Hill of Angels claims this is the site of continuation of some of the spiritual buildings of Trakai – Trakai Orthodox Church of Our Lady, the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Trakai Island Castle the of Trakai. Angel Hill and the Angel Trail, which stretches onwards, are like a symbolic crown for Trakai.

All tourist routes according to the themes of intangible cultural heritage

Ethno-cultural events

The three-day event – Trakai Summer – is a fun-filled event full of colours, art festivals, attractions, entertainment, fun music and a cheerful mood – a great opportunity to get acquainted with both the intangible and tangible cultural heritage of Trakai district. A tourist itinerary for each day will allow you to get to know the Trakai region better and accumulate a wealth of fun memories. Some routes can be done on foot, others require a bike or a car. Let the discovery journey begin!

Route for art lovers promoting ethno-culture

Travelling along these routes (this route), you will not only get to know the music and traditions of different regions of Lithuania, but will also feel tolerance and respect for the culture of other nations when you stop and take a moment of being. You will visit many great places in the Trakai region: from architectural treasures to spectacular natural treasures. The routes for travellers also promise to introduce them to the traditional crafts of the Trakai region and the cuisines of different countries. Discover and explore to preserve the most beautiful things!

Traditional trading times

The Town Hall Market, which is famous in Trakai, is a testimony to the trades of the region, when it was not only an economic necessity, but also an opportunity to socialise and learn about the latest news. Travellers on these routes will have a great opportunity to feel the spirit of the market towns and to visit the famous sights of the Trakai region such as Trakai Castle, Trakai Basilica, Aukų Hill, Trakai Old Town, etc. Visitors can taste cuisines from different countries and learn about traditional crafts of the Trakai region.

Ethno-parties, educational activities

During the cycle of Christmas events in Trakai, the Trakai Culture Palace hosts a Christmas ethno-workshop – the Christmas Factory, which includes activities in different activity spots. Professional artists and painters teach theatre and singing arts. A Christmas Factory is only powerful when it is filled with people. Only then do the production processes gain momentum, the machines start working, the laughter sounds, and the smell of paint and wax begins to fill the air. Taking part in these ethno-workshops, ‘A Journey to Santa Claus’ on the Christmas train, is part of the Christmas itinerary, offering an escape from the rushing, bustling and anxious everyday world. Stop for a moment and listen to the ticking time of the present.

Events according to the liturgical calendar

The route is a 35-kilometre journey of joy, prayer, communion, fatigue, hymns of praise and the most beautiful autumn adventure. This is a great opportunity to visit the Trakai Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, a unique monument of faith and Lithuanian cultural history.

This is also a great opportunity to travel along the Vytautas the Great Route, which introduces travellers to important events in the life of Vytautas the Great and his achievements, as well as to many other sites of importance to the Trakai region. Pilgrimages are journeys of concentration. May the sacrality and inner peace settle quietly in the mind and heart.