Merkinė – one of the oldest settlements in Lithuania – is located at the confluence of the Merkys and Nemunas rivers. Right beside the confluence stands a hillfort dating back to the battles against the Teutonic Knights, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Lithuania. Today, Merkinė is known not only for its rich history and cultural heritage but also for its gourmet-loved restaurants and cozy cafés.
History of Merkinė
Merkinė was first mentioned in written sources in 1359. In 1387, Grand Duke Jogaila signed a privilege in Merkinė granting Magdeburg rights to the city of Vilnius. It is believed that the first church in Merkinė was also established around that time. On December 7, 1569, King Sigismund Augustus granted Merkinė its own Magdeburg rights, along with a coat of arms and an official seal. The town’s coat of arms features a silver (white) unicorn with golden (yellow) hooves and horn, and a red tongue on a blue field.
Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland Władysław IV Vasa granted numerous privileges to Merkinė. He frequently visited the town and died there on May 20, 1648. Merkinė briefly lost its self-governing rights after the city reform of 1776, but regained them in 1791, maintaining autonomy until the fall of the state in 1795.
During the Russian Empire period, Merkinė suffered from several fires. In 1831, the Dominican monastery and school were closed. Later, on December 15, 1945, the Battle of Merkinė took place. More historical information can be found on the Merkinė Regional Museum website.)
What to do in Merkinė:
Black ceramics craft center "Vienaragių šilas"
