After relaxing at a rural tourism homestead in the Alytus district, visit the Alytus Hillfort. It is surrounded by the Alytupis Valley to the west and northwest, and by the Nemunas River to the south.
The site is steeped in various legends. One of them tells a tragic love story from which the city's name is believed to have originated. The legend speaks of Mirgrausėlė and Alyta, who once lived there and fell deeply in love. Mirgrausėlė was destined to be a priestess, while Alyta was a warrior. When the castle was attacked by the Crusaders, Alyta fought bravely and escaped to rescue his beloved, who was tending the sacred fire on Gabija Hill. After hiding Mirgrausėlė, Alyta returned to the battle and perished. Upon learning of her lover’s death, Mirgrausėlė wept bitterly, and her tears formed a stream flowing into the Nemunas River. According to the tale, Mirgrausėlė’s tears still flow into the stream to this day, and the water is said to help people fall in love or strengthen their love.
As the legend suggests, Alytus Castle once stood here, and the surrounding area was ravaged by Crusaders in 1377 and 1382. The hillfort offers a stunning view of the city. Nearby, there is a recreation area with pavilions, fire pits, children's playgrounds, and walking trails that lead to the Klebonas Stone.
Photo source: © Marius Kaitulis
Forest trail section 57. Nemunaitis – Alytus tourist attraction.
