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Footbridge over Širvėnos Lake

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Širvėnos Lake in Biržai is considered the oldest artificial water body in Lithuania. Created in 1575 by damming two rivers, it was an important part of the Biržai defensive fortress, protecting the town from the north. At that time, the lake covered nearly 400 hectares.

In 1928, an impressive 525-meter-long pedestrian bridge was built, connecting Astravas and Biržai. It became the longest pedestrian bridge in Lithuania. Today, the lake covers about 325 hectares, and the bridge is a popular spot for fishermen, newlyweds, and tourists.

Visitors often choose the bridge as a walking route to enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the town of Biržai, as well as the tranquility.

Info

Architecture
Birzai
Biržai Tourism and Business Information Center

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The footbridge over Širvėnos Lake was established in 1575 when two rivers flowing through Biržai were dammed. The creation of this lake is closely tied to the construction of the Biržai defensive fortress. At that time, the lake covered nearly 400 hectares and served as a crucial defense for the fortress and the town from the north, effectively protecting the castle and town by spreading over a marshy area. In 1928, on the opposite side of the lake, an impressive 525-meter-long and 2.45-meter-wide footbridge was constructed at the linen factory located

in the buildings of the Astravas Manor. This bridge connected Astravas and Biržai and became the longest footbridge in Lithuania. Today, the area of Širvėnos Lake is about 325 hectares, and the bridge is a popular spot for fishermen, newlyweds, locals, and tourists. Visitors who wish to enjoy the tranquility of the lake and the panorama of Biržai often choose this bridge as their walking route to Astravas Manor. While strolling across this historic bridge, people can relish the stunning natural views and experience the serenity provided by the lake.

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