Lithuanian Amber

Like in many other countries bordering the Baltic Sea, amber was one of Lithuania’s most important trade goods in the Middle Ages. One of the three Amber Roads ran from Palanga to Aquileia, Italy. Baltic amber goes by many names. In mythology, it is often called the tears of the sea, and in trade, the gold of the sea. Amber remains immensely important to Lithuania today.

Whether rooted in ancient folk beliefs, enjoyed as a highlight of a trip to Lithuania, made into jewellery or used as a remedy, amber is and remains a kind of trademark of the country. Ultimately, the legacy of the Amber Room’s fate in Klaipėda also watches over Lithuania: these are the very legends, already told around the world in vivid and imaginative detail, that add so much to the fascination with Lithuanian amber. Most visitors to Lithuania know that amber is associated with both Ice Ages. Few, however, know that there are significant differences between amber from the first and second Ice Ages. Amber from Lithuania is compared with amber from the Mediterranean region and the Central Uplands. The Amber Museum in Palanga offers visitors the chance to learn what distinguishes Lithuanian amber and what healing properties it is believed to have. A somewhat smaller amber museum is located in Neringa, where the focus is more on the pleasure of collecting. The Amber Museum in Palanga explains the history of amber and the amber trade up to the present day, shows how amber can be formed, and explains when amber may be classified as a mineral.


Those who can’t get enough of Lithuanian amber will find many valuable books and brochures in German. And if they wish, they can also follow the Amber Route from Lithuania all the way to the Mediterranean.