Lithuanian pirtis - old and new

Date: 2025-03-11, 21:00
Organizer : Lithuanian Bath Academy

The tradition of visiting a Lithuanian pirtis (steam bathhouse or sauna) has been recognised as a national intangible heritage asset. Knowing our roots and history allows us to better appreciate our present, today. What was a steam bathinh to Lithuanians? Why is it still important to us today? How are we similar and how are we different from others?

A modern Lithuanian sauna decorated for a traditional bridal gathering (mergavakaris).

The Lithuanian tradition of sauna use is believed to date back to the Stone Age. The oldest steam bathouses were heated by heating up heaps of stones and served not only a cleansing, but also a social or ceremonial purpose, particularly important for families and communities. They were used for healing, childbirth, bathing and bathing the dead, as well as for initiations. The community baths were used for meetings and conferences. Baths existed in one form or another throughout Northern and Eastern Europe. After being on the verge of extinction during the Soviet era, the Lithuanian tradition of visiting bathhouses was revived during independence and is now thriving.

The pirtis, whether private or rented, is usually visited in larger or smaller groups in the evening or at the weekend, for 3-6 hours. It is usually led by a sauna master, either an experienced member of the sauna community or a specially invited expert in the craft.

A traditional Lithuanian sauna is about 60 degrees and quite humid, with steam rising from the hot stones of the stove, which are poured with water. A particularly important procedure is whiskingthe body with birch, oak or other whisk. In recent times, sauna treatments have expanded to include more herbs, natural body cleansers and beauty products, such as salt, ground chestnuts, clay, honey, etc. Bathers bathe themselves, bathe each other or are bathed by a sauna attendant.

Although the hygienic significance of the sauna has diminished, many Lithuanians are installing saunas in their individual homes and farmhouses, and they go to the pirtis to relax, meditate, socialise, and often to celebrate important occasions such as birthdays, hen or stag nights, calendar holidays and to carry out rituals of varying importance. It is still important as a form of communication to help maintain physical and emotional health, and to pass through personal and calendar transitions. Many people look to the sauna not only for pleasure, but also for a deeper connection with themselves, nature and their roots.

Traditional Lithuanian village bath house. Photo from S. Daunys archive

The history of the Lithuanian pirtis is still far from being fully explored, with many question marks and moments of debate. And we are part of that history, part of the living tradition, its bearers and maintainers.  Knowing our roots makes us stronger - and gives us the courage to create, to go further.

The webinar format is convenient for everyone, no matter where you are. All you need is the internet. The topic of Lithuanian pirtis is relevant for all students, but recommended for those interested in sauna, graduates or self-employed.

The seminar will cover:

• The history of the Lithuanian pirtis;
• The ethics of the Lithuanian pirtis;
• Folk customs related to the Lithuanian pirtis;
• The current situation of the Lithuanian pirtis.

Rimas Kavaliauskas, Birute Masiliauskiene - Lithuanaian Bath Academy