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Old Cemetery Known as Pilalė

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The old Tauzai village cemetery is located near Mosėdis and Skuodas, along the banks of the Bartuva River. This archaeological monument is a tree-covered mound about 10 meters in diameter, surrounded by stones. According to local residents, the cemetery dates back to the times of battles with the Swedes. Before the war, archaeologists from Kaunas examined the site and discovered ancient grave remains, with large stones covering the surrounding graves. Although some graves were damaged during land reclamation, this site remains on the list of locally significant archaeological monuments.

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Historical Heritage
Skuodas Information Center

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56.182058, 21.563973

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The Tauzai village cemetery, situated along the Bartuva River and west of the Skuodas–Salantai road, preserves the mysterious history of battles with the Swedes. Locally known as Pilalė, this 10-meter-wide and slightly over 1-meter-high mound is surrounded by large stones and covered with trees. The cemetery layout reflects burial practices from the 17th to the 19th centuries, when local residents were buried here. The area also features small, barrow-like mounds with symbolic stones and the remnants of chapel foundations. It is said that before the Great Patriotic War, archaeologists

from Kaunas conducted research in this area. Layers of graves with stones, charcoal, and ashes uncovered during these excavations suggest that the cemetery held particular ritual significance. Unfortunately, part of the site was damaged by land reclamation work, but local residents made efforts to preserve it. In 1972, the cemetery was added to the list of locally significant archaeological monuments, becoming an essential part of Tauzai village’s cultural heritage. Today, the area is leveled, but history enthusiasts can still find symbols reflecting the local past here.

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