What are the Baltic states? The Baltic states, also known as the Baltic countries, are three nations bordering the Baltic Sea in the north of Europe: Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Where do the Baltic states get their name? They are named both for the Baltic tribes that inhabited the territory in prehistoric times as well …
Have you ever wondered what it’s like living in Northern Europe? Maybe you’ve considered moving to one of the Baltic states or the Nordic countries for work, studies, or other reasons. How does living in Northern Europe differ from living in other parts of Europe or the world? Discover eight ways life in the Northern …
11 Intriguing Truths About Living in Northern Europe Read More »
If you’re traveling to the Baltic countries—Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia—you may have a certain idea in mind about how you’d like to spend your time. That’s where the best Baltic cities come in. Whether you want to explore history, relax, enjoy festivals, or simply find inspiration off the beaten path, cities throughout the Baltics have …
Baltic folk art has well-established traditions in folk culture and reflects the environment and beliefs of the peoples who originally developed them—with regional differences, of course! If you love folk art, especially Northern European or Eastern European folk art, the folk art of the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia will delight you with …
Brilliant Baltic Folk Art from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia Read More »
Looking for an inexpensive, beautiful, and safe travel destination? Look no further than the Baltic capitals. The capitals of the Baltic countries are Riga, Latvia; Tallinn, Estonia; and Vilnius, Lithuania. Each has its own character, history, influences, and style. Get to know the Baltic capital cities and explore this exciting travel region through food, culture, …
The Beautiful Baltic Capitals: Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius Read More »
The flags of the Baltic countries – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – represent these countries’ identities as independent states. They also tell of their history prior to and during occupation by outside sources and give us a hint about national values embedded in the symbolism of each flag. These flags are especially important if you …
Flags of the Baltic Countries: Meaning and History Read More »
Facts about the Baltics often talk about each country separately. And while Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are fascinating individually, the Baltic countries share some similarities that make for surprising and fun information. Did you know the following facts about the Baltics? Baltic States Fact #1: Linguistically Different, Culturally Similar (Sort of) Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia …
Easter in the Baltic countries is a combination of Christian religious worship, Baltic pagan influence, and secular elements. While each country has its own way of celebrating Easter, some similarities exist between them. Easter is a strong aspect of Baltic culture, and the way old traditions have been kept alive helps the people of today …
Before Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia were Christianized, their people followed a pagan belief system. Polytheism—or the belief in multiple gods—nature worship, and sacrifice were a part of their religious rituals. Some leftovers of pagan times can be seen as a part of modern holiday customs—think decorated eggs. Furthermore, some holidays that come to us directly …
Baltic Paganism: Ancient Beliefs, Modern Spiritualism Read More »
Many people group the three Baltic states of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia into one trip, which makes sense! They’re close together, easy to travel between, and small enough to sample all at once during a single vacation. They can also be enjoyed separately or as a part of a broader exploration of Northern and Central …
Travel in the Baltic Countries: A Beginner’s Guide Read More »
