NATIONAL SYMBOLS OF LITHUANIA

Pensive ChristOne of the most popular Lithuanian folk art wood carvings is Pensive Christ, sitting with his head supported by his hand . The facial expression implies contemplation and worry.

Masks (Shrove Tuesday)Shrove Tuesday is the last Tuesday before Lent. A major element of this festival is the defeat of winter. The making of masks is an inseparable part of Shrove Tuesday. The masks are supposed to scare the winter away.

RueThe rue is the unofficial national flower of Lithuania. The rue, the wreath of rue, became the symbol of virginity. A bride traditionally wears a little crown of rue on her wedding day. Later it is burned symbolising entrance into adulthood. Most Lithuanian gardens contain this flower.

Cottage CheeseCottage cheese may be sweet, sour, seasoned with caraway, fresh, or cured until semi-soft. The most popular way of eating Lithuanian non-fermented white cheese is with fresh honey. It has been enrolled into the list of protectable products of the EU.

AmberAmber is nicknamed "Lithuanian gold", known since prehistoric times. The origins of Baltic amber are linked with the Lithuanian legend about Juratė, the queen of the sea, who fell in love with Kastytis, a fisherman. Her father punished his daughter by destroying her amber palace and changing her into sea foam. The pieces of the Juratė’s palace can still be found on the Baltic shore.

Oak TreeWorshipping of oak trees comes from pagan times, when they were of religious significance. It is a symbol of power and strength . It also symbolises immortality and longevity. A wreath of oak leaves is given for victories in sport and on other occasions – name-days, jubilees.

National SashesSashes are used as a waist girdle in the national costume and also to make women's headpieces. At present sashes are used to honour people on the occasion of their birthdays, or to welcome an honourable guest. Sashes were also used on funeral wreaths instead of ribbons.

Rye BreadBlack rye bread is the cornerstone of Lithuanian cuisine and deeply embedded in the culture. Such bread with salt is frequently used for greeting people on occasions or newlyweds on the wedding day coming back from church. Many emigrants from Lithuania often say that this bread is the thing they miss most.

Flax and linen Flax has been grown in Lithuania from around 2000 BC. Linen was probably the only fabric used for clothing. The importance of linen can be seen in the folk songs. People sang songs on every occasion, including the seeding and cutting of flax and weaving of linen. Flax seeds and oil are used for food and they have healing powers.