Places of Interest in the Varėna District

The Dzūkija region has long been famous for its crafts, hardworking, friendly, and hospitable people. The villages here have been least affected by civilization. Traditional wooden houses of Dzūkija still remain, and in many of them you can find looms, spinning wheels, and other old household tools. In the past, village women used to gather in one cottage to spend evenings together – weaving, plucking feathers, knitting, embroidering, braiding, and making traditional straw decorations.

Thus, Dzūkija still has good conditions to revive, nurture, and preserve ancient crafts, even though each year villages grow older and the traditions, customs, and secrets of crafts slowly slip into oblivion.

Dzūkija is also rich in natural beauty. Visitors can not only enjoy the scenery, pick mushrooms and berries, and learn about the region’s history, but also acquire skills in traditional crafts. For this purpose, small folk craft schools have been established.

Examples of Place Listings

Jakėnai Eldership, www.varena.lt

• The “Enchanted Maiden” Stone, Akmenis village

• Church of the Crucified Jesus and belfry, Akmenis village

• Bronius Jurgelevičius’ Mini Zoo, Karpiškės village

Kaniava Eldership, www.varena.lt

• Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Dubičiai village

• Monument to the participants of the 1863 Uprising and cemetery, Dubičiai village

• Cross marking the battle site of 1863 rebels and Tsar’s army

• Poet Anzelmas Matutis’ tree hollow, Pauosupė village

• Linear village of Lynežeris