Šiauliai is Lithuania’s fourth largest city, located in the northern part of the country. With origins dating back to the 13th century, Šiauliai has a long and storied history. Today, the city is known as a cultural hub and for its iconic sunflower festivals. Let’s explore why Šiauliai is nicknamed the “City of Sunflowers.”
Table of Contents
Brief History and Overview of Šiauliai
The area was first mentioned in written sources in the 13th century, when the Livonian Order built a wooden castle there. In the 16th century, Šiauliai was granted Magdeburg rights, allowing the city to self-govern. After being destroyed during wars with Russia in the 17th and 18th centuries, the city was rebuilt in a Neoclassical style.
Following WWII, the city was extensively rebuilt in a Soviet style. It became an important industrial center. After Lithuania regained independence in 1990, Šiauliai has developed into a modern city with a thriving cultural scene. The population is around 100,000.
Key Features of Šiauliai
Hill of Crosses
Located just 12 km outside the city, this Catholic pilgrimage site has thousands of crosses placed by visitors over generations. It holds deep significance for Lithuanians as a symbol of peaceful resistance.
Chaim Frenkel Villa
Built in 1909, this beautiful historic art nouveau building was designed by a Jewish industrialist. It now houses the Šiauliai “Aušra” Museum.
St. Peter and St. Paul’s Cathedral
This prominent cathedral dominates the city’s skyline. Originally built in the 17th century, the current Baroque-style cathedral was built in 1756.
Šiauliai Art Gallery
Opened in 1945, this gallery holds the largest art collection in northern Lithuania with over 16,000 works. It regularly hosts exhibitions.
Šiauliai Television Tower
At 326 m tall, this tower constructed in 1986 is one of the tallest structures in Lithuania. Visitors can ascend to enjoy panoramic views.
Saulės laikrodis (Sun Clock)
Built in 1986, this giant sundial adorned with sunflowers has become an iconic city landmark. Its design celebrates Šiauliai’s nickname as the “City of Sunflowers.”
Culture of Šiauliai
Folk Traditions and Crafts
Šiauliai has a strong folk culture, with many traditional events held annually. Handicrafts such as pottery, knitting, and woodworking are practiced.
Cuisine
Local foods include dark rye bread, potatoes, meat, and dairy products. A popular dish is kastinys, a baked pudding made with eggs and sour cream.
Museums
In addition to the art gallery, Šiauliai has museums dedicated to photography, bicycles, radio and TV, chocolate, and more. Many are interactive and family-friendly.
Sunflower Festival
History and Origins
Šiauliai has held its annual Sunflower Festival since 1995. It honors the city’s namesake flower and coincides with the blooming of sunflowers in September.
Activities and Attractions
The multi-day festival features concerts, craft fairs, exhibits, sunflower-themed decor and foods, and the crowning of a “Miss Sunflower.” Fields of sunflowers surround the city.
Significance to the City
The festival strengthens community spirit and cultural heritage. The sunflower became a symbol of Šiauliai after the tower was built. The festival confirms the city’s identity.
Outdoor Activities in Šiauliai
Cycling
With flat terrain, Šiauliai is perfect for cycling. Special bike paths connect to nearby towns. Bike rental stations make exploring by bike easy.
Šiauliai Lake and Gillwalking
This popular lake offers beaches, walking trails, and gillwalking paths that allow visitors to explore the pine woods along wooden planks.
Parks and Green Spaces
Parks like Central Park and the Botanical Garden provide scenic areas to enjoy picnics and nature. Vingis Park is the largest at 65.7 hectares.
Conclusion
With its art and culture combined with folk traditions and natural spaces, Šiauliai provides an authentic Lithuanian experience. The annual Sunflower Festival perfectly captures the welcoming spirit of this vibrant city. Visiting the “City of Sunflowers” allows you to immerse yourself in Lithuanian heritage.
FAQs
What is Šiauliai best known for?
Šiauliai is best known for its iconic sunflower festival held annually each September. The city is nicknamed the “City of Sunflowers.”
How do you get to Šiauliai?
Šiauliai is well connected by rail, bus, air, and road. It’s located off the Via Baltica highway about 230 km northwest of Vilnius and 185 km east of Riga, Latvia.
What is there to do in Šiauliai?
Top attractions include the Hill of Crosses, Chaim Frenkel Villa, Sun Clock, cycling trails, lakeside recreation, museums, and the Sunflower Festival.
What traditional foods can you try in Šiauliai?
Traditional Lithuanian foods to try in Šiauliai include dark rye bread, potatoes, meat, dairy products, and kastinys (baked egg and sour cream pudding).
What time of year is best to visit Šiauliai?
Late summer is the best time to visit, coinciding with the Sunflower Festival held annually each September. Summer offers pleasant weather for activities.