Alytus is a city in Lithuania, the sixth largest city in the country, the administrative center of the county and district of the same name. The number of inhabitants exceeds 50,000. The basis of the economy are the enterprises of the electrical complex, textile and food industries, tourism is developed.
Historical reference
The first documented references to the city of Alytus in Lithuania relate to historical chronicles dated 1377. To limit the expansion of the Teutonic Order, the fortress of Olita was built on the banks of the Neman. However, archaeologists have established that as early as the 6th-9th centuries there was a large mixed Lithuanian-Yatvyag settlement. Excavations also showed that in the XIV century in the historical center of the city were a church and town hall.
After the Battle of Grunwald, the crusader raids ceased, and Alytus began to develop dynamically. On October 15, 1581, the Grand Duke of Lithuania Stefan Batory granted the Magdeburg Law and coat of arms to the settlement. This date is celebrated as City Day.
Significant adjustments made XVII century. Due to the intervention of the Swedes, the city lost a lot of people. In 1798, as a result of the division of the Commonwealth, the right bank went to the Russian Empire, and the left bank - to Prussia. Unification occurred only in 1915.
During the Second World War, Alytus became the site of the first tank battle between German and Soviet mechanized units on June 22-23, 1941, which ended in heavy losses on both sides. During the years of occupation, there was a concentration camp for Jews and a camp for exiles.
Description
Today Alytus in Lithuania is known as the cultural, administrative and economic center of the historical Dzukiya region, which occupies the southern part of the republic. The city is located in a picturesque hilly area on the winding banks of the Neman River. From all sides it is surrounded by forests and green pastures. The architecture harmoniously combines old quarters with low-rise buildings, modern neighborhoods and the private sector.
Alytus is divided into two unequal parts by the Neman. The main housing estates and attractions are located on the left bank (Alytus I), on the right is the local airport, industrial areas and private buildings (Alytus II). Both halves are connected by two automobile and one pedestrian bridges.
Demography
At the peak of its development, in 1989, the population of Alytus in Lithuania exceeded 73,000 people. The largest influx of population was observed in the 70s, which is associated with the industrialization of the city. Over the decade, the number of inhabitants has almost doubled from 28,000 to 56,000. Today, the settlement is home to 52,000 citizens, and the downward trend is very noticeable.
Ethnicity is dominated by Lithuanians - about 97% of the population. Before the war, almost a quarter of the population were Jews, but most of them were destroyed by the Nazis in the Alytus concentration camp. Lithuania during the years of occupation was subjected to serious ethnic cleansing. A significant outflow of people of other nationalities was observed in recent history. Today, the number of Russians, Belarusians and Ukrainians does not exceed 2%.
Education
The educational level of the city’s population is considered one of the highest in Lithuania. There are 40 educational institutions in Alytus:
- kindergartens;
- elementary schools;
- comprehensive schools;
- youth and adult school;
- high schools;
- gymnasium;
- vocational schools;
- Alytus College.
The latter offers the opportunity to obtain a non-university degree in many specialties.
Economy
Alytus is an innovative industrial city. Inside Lithuania and abroad, manufactured goods and food products manufactured by local companies are renowned for their high quality. In the city economy, the dominant positions are occupied by the manufacture of machinery and equipment, sewing of textiles and clothing, the production of food and beverages, timber and furniture.
The most famous enterprise, perhaps, is the manufacturer of household refrigerators and professional freezing equipment Snaige. No less famous is the factory for the production of alcoholic beverages under the brand name "Alita" (Alita).
Tourism
Convenient geographical position, rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscape and tourist infrastructure attract more travelers to Alytus. Lithuania welcomes guests with hospitality and hospitality.
There are various cultural institutions in the city:
- J. Kunsinas Public Library and its 3 branches.
- City Theater.
- Alytus Museum of Local Lore.
- Memorial Museum of A. Matutis.
- Cinema Dainava.
- Public institution "Cultural and communication center".
The administration also organizes events such as the Dzukija Craft Festival, which features traditional crafts related to the Dzukija region.
More than 500 concerts and performances are held annually in the city. The traditional festival of Alytus attracts thousands of tourists. It is known for interesting cultural and sporting events for people of all ages, including performances by local and international music groups.