Marijampolė: The Heart of Southern Lithuania

• HelloLabas
  [lah-bahs]
• GoodbyeViso gero
  [vee-soh geh-roh]
• YesTaip
  [taip]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomePrašau
  [prah-sow]
• Thank youAčiū
  [ah-choo]
• Excuse me/SorryAtsiprašau
  [ah-tsee-prah-sow]
• How are you?Kaip tu?
  [kai-p too]
• Fine. And you?Gerai. O tu?
  [geh-ry. oh too]
• Do you speak English?Ar kalbate angliškai?
  [ahr kahl-bah-teh ahng-leesh-kai]
• I don't understandAš nesuprantu
  [ahsh neh-soo-prahn-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNorėčiau pamatyti meniu, prašau
  [no-reh-chow pah-mah-ti-ti meh-nyoo, prah-sow]
• I don't eat meatAš nevalgau mėsos
  [ahsh neh-vahl-gow meh-sohs]
• Cheers!Į sveikatą!
  [ee svei-kah-tah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNorėčiau sumokėti, prašau
  [no-reh-chow soo-moh-keh-ti, prah-sow]

• Help!Pagalba!
  [pah-gahl-bah]
• Go away!Eik šalin!
  [ayk shah-leen]
• Call the Police!Paskambinkite policijai!
  [pah-skahm-bin-kee-teh poh-lee-tsai]
• Call a doctor!Paskambinkite gydytojui!
  [pah-skahm-bin-kee-teh gid-dih-toi]
• I'm lostAš pasiklydau
  [ahsh pah-sik-luh-dow]
• I'm illAš sergu
  [ahsh sehr-goo]

• I'd like to buy...Norėčiau nusipirkti...
  [no-reh-chow noo-see-peerk-tee]
• I'm just lookingAš tik žiūriu
  [ahsh teek zee-oo-ree-oo]
• How much is it?Kiek tai kainuoja?
  [kyek tai kai-noo-yah]
• That's too expensiveTai per brangu
  [tai pehr brahng-oo]
• Can you lower the price?Ar galite sumažinti kainą?
  [ahr gah-lee-teh soo-mah-zin-tee kai-nah]

• What time is it?Kiek laiko?
  [kyek lai-koh]
• It's one o'clockYra viena valanda
  [ee-rah vyeh-nah vah-lahn-dah]
• Half past (10)Dešimt penkiolika
  [deh-shimt pehn-kyoh-lee-kah]
• MorningRytas
  [rih-tahs]
• AfternoonPopietė
  [poh-pieh-teh]
• EveningVakaras
  [vah-kah-rahs]
• YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
• TodayŠiandien
  [shahn-dyehn]
• TomorrowRytoj
  [rih-toy]
• 1Vienas
  [vyeh-nahs]
• 2Du
  [doo]
• 3Trys
  [treese]
• 4Keturi
  [keh-too-ree]
• 5Penki
  [pehn-kee]
• 6Šeši
  [sheh-shee]
• 7Septyni
  [sehp-tee-nee]
• 8Aštuoni
  [ahs-too-oh-nee]
• 9Devyni
  [deh-vee-nee]
• 10Dešimt
  [deh-shimt]

• Where's a/the...?Kur yra...?
  [koor yrah]
• What's the address?Kokia adresas?
  [koh-kya ah-dreh-sahs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ar galite man parodyti (žemėlapyje)?
  [ahr gah-lee-teh mahn pah-roh-dee-tee zheh-meh-lah-pyeh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada sekančias (autobusas)?
  [kah-dah se-kahn-chyahs ow-toh-boo-sahs]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilietą (į ....)
  [bee-lyeh-tah (ee)]

Marijampolė, situated in the Suvalkija region, traces its origins back to the 18th century. Initially, it was a small settlement known as Starapolė, which began to grow significantly when the Marijampolė Manor was established by the noble family of Butler. The town was eventually named after the Blessed Virgin Mary, reflecting its deep Catholic roots.

The official establishment of Marijampolė as a town is marked by the construction of the first wooden church in 1758 and the foundation of the Marian Fathers' Monastery. These events catalyzed the town's growth, making it a focal point for religious activity in the region.

In 1795, following the third partition of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Marijampolė was annexed by the Russian Empire. During this period, the town experienced significant changes, including the development of infrastructure and an increase in administrative importance.

By the mid-19th century, Marijampolė had established itself as an educational center. The founding of the Marijampolė Gymnasium in 1840 played a crucial role in this transformation, attracting students from surrounding regions and fostering a vibrant intellectual community.

After World War I and the subsequent declaration of Lithuanian independence in 1918, Marijampolė saw a period of economic and cultural prosperity. It became a significant center for trade, industry, and education. The town's infrastructure expanded, and new cultural institutions were established, reflecting its growing importance.

Marijampolė, like much of Lithuania, suffered greatly during World War II. The town was occupied first by Soviet forces in 1940, followed by Nazi Germany in 1941. The Jewish community, which had been a vital part of Marijampolė's cultural fabric, faced tragic persecution, culminating in the Holocaust.

Post-World War II, Marijampolė was incorporated into the Soviet Union. This period was marked by industrialization and the imposition of Soviet policies. However, it was also a time of resistance, with many locals engaging in partisan activities against Soviet rule. The town continued to grow, with new factories and residential areas being developed.

The restoration of Lithuanian independence in 1990 marked a significant turning point for Marijampolė. The town embarked on a path of revitalization and modernization. Efforts were made to preserve its historical heritage while fostering economic development and cultural renewal.

Today, Marijampolė stands as a vibrant and dynamic town, balancing its rich historical legacy with contemporary progress. It is known for its cultural events, educational institutions, and a strong sense of community. The town continues to thrive, offering visitors a unique blend of history and modernity.

Marijampolė is located in the southern part of Lithuania. The nearest major airport is Kaunas International Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away. From Kaunas, you can take a direct bus or train to Marijampolė, which typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which offers more flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic Lithuanian countryside along the way.

Marijampolė is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are available and relatively inexpensive. The city's public transportation system is reliable, and buses connect various parts of Marijampolė as well as surrounding villages. Car rentals are also an option if you prefer to travel at your own pace and explore the surrounding region.

The official currency in Lithuania is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Marijampolė. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

Marijampolė is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the emergency number used across the European Union. Marijampolė has local police stations and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are accessible for over-the-counter medications and minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Marijampolė like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Lithuanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Marijampolė Cultural Center and the Vytautas the Great Park. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Šešupė River, where you can enjoy beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.