The Strėva Sinkhole, also known by locals as the subsidence or the sinkhole, is considered the sister of the Devil's Pit. This mysterious place has many legends and tales woven around it. According to ancient Lithuanian mythology, a tavern of devils once sank here! The Strėva Sinkhole is located in the Aukštadvaris Regional Park, within the Spindžius Landscape Reserve near the village of Strėva. The rich flora and fauna of the reserve make it significant not only in the context of Lithuania but also in Europe. The reserve is part of the European Union's protected "Natura 2000" network. The Trakai Forest District oversees the maintenance of this state-protected forest area to make it attractive for visitors. According to scientists, this sinkhole is of thermokarst origin, formed approximately 18,000 years ago. As glaciers retreated, sediments buried a detached ice block, and when it melted, a basin-shaped cavity emerged. The sinkhole is about 150 meters long and 100 meters wide. A path of giant spruces leads to the 20-meter-deep hole. An observation platform and a surrounding nature trail offer views of this natural phenomenon from all sides. Interestingly, many poisonous plants can be found around! Notably, the Spindžius Forest is one of Lithuania's ancient forests, boasting trees of great age. Here, tall pines, oaks, and other long-lived tree species flourish. The forest contains diverse tree generations, with four different species present. A core forest habitat, undisturbed by human activity, has been designated in the ancient forest, where rare and endangered plant species are likely to be found. Some plants are protected not only in Lithuania but also within the European Union. A Treasury of Legends According to one of the most well-known legends, a tavern where devils used to revel once stood at the site of the Strėva Sinkhole. On one fasting day, they supposedly held a wedding. At the crowing of the rooster, the tavern with all the devils inside sank. Local residents say that even today, mysterious and strange sounds sometimes emanate from the sinkhole. Today, the roof ridge of a wooden house protrudes from the bottom of the Strėva Sinkhole, reminiscent of the legend. Another legend tells of a father from a large family who frequented a tavern that once stood here. One day, his wife found him feasting and tried to bring him home. When he refused, she became angry, revealing herself to be a sorceress. She cursed the tavern and its occupants, causing it to sink into the ground. It is also said that a grand mountain

with impressive crystal palaces once stood here, inhabited by devils. They lived harmoniously, sharing tasks and deciding whom to bother or play pranks on. However, a dispute over leadership led to chaos. Seeing the discord, the god Perkūnas became enraged and sent lightning bolts that not only destroyed the palaces but also sank the devils deep into the ground. It is said that even today, one can hear angry shouts and quarrels if they listen closely. Strėva - Flowing Stream The area around the Strėva Sinkhole features several places and objects associated with the name Strėva. Interestingly, the word "strėva" is linked to the Sanskrit word "sravati," meaning "to flow" or "to pour." Notable places include the village of Strėvininkai, the Strėva Hillfort, and the Strėva River, embodying the Sanskrit word "sravati." The upper reaches of the Strėva River are a natural treasure trove, rich in lakes and springs. The Strėva River is a marshy waterway surrounded by dense vegetation, connecting about 20 lakes. The spring-fed river flows eastward, symbolizing its sacred nature in Lithuanian folklore. Strėva has long been regarded as a holy and special river, with locals valuing the spring water that feeds into it. The Green Trail This nature trail winds alongside the Strėva River and forms a circular route through the Spindžius Forest. It connects the Strėva Sinkhole with other significant sites, helping visitors navigate these mystical surroundings. One of the surprises along the Green Trail is the Spring Hill, where springs that never freeze even in winter gush forth. This rare natural phenomenon is valuable both naturally and culturally. The waters flow in all directions, feeding the Strėva River and helping form marshes and bogs that are particularly favored by beavers. In ancient folk traditions, never-freezing springs were considered sacred, and their water was believed to have healing properties. It is said that locals would take this water home to cure ailments, and shepherds would use it to soothe their tired feet. The Orchid Kingdom is another highlight, featuring a plantation of native Lithuanian orchids on a small hill. This sanctuary is home to sensitive plants like various species of marsh orchids and the lady's slipper orchid, protected in Lithuania and the European Union. In Lithuanian folklore, attempts to cultivate these flowers in home gardens often failed, leading to their reputation as capricious or even mysterious. Orchids were considered magical, used by elders in folk medicine and divination.