Bitėnai

Bitėnai is a village in Pagėgiai Municipality, Tauragė County, Lithuania. It is located near the Neman River and the Rambynas Regional Park.

History: Bitėnai is known for its historical and cultural significance, primarily due to its connection with the preservation of Lithuanian culture and language during periods of foreign rule. It was a significant center for book smuggling (knygnešystė) in the 19th century when the printing and distribution of Lithuanian books written in the Latin alphabet was banned by the Tsarist regime.

Culture: The Martynas Jankus Museum is located in Bitėnai. Martynas Jankus (1858-1946) was an important figure in the Lithuanian national revival movement and a prominent book smuggler. The museum showcases his life, work, and the history of the book smuggling era.

Geography: Bitėnai is situated in a picturesque location, surrounded by natural beauty, including the Rambynas hill, which is considered historically and mythologically significant. The village is close to the border with the Kaliningrad Oblast of Russia.

Tourism: The village attracts tourists interested in Lithuanian history, culture, and nature. The Martynas Jankus Museum and the proximity to Rambynas Regional Park are popular attractions.