Curonian Spit Fisherman's Weathervanes

Neringa, Klaipėda1 hourBest: May to September

Unique decorative weathervanes from Curonian Spit fishing villages — each one identified the owner's village and served as a personal emblem on the open sea.

The fisherman's weathervanes (kuršių vėtrungės) of the Curonian Spit are a unique form of folk art found nowhere else in the world. These elaborate wooden weathervanes were once mounted on every fishing boat, with each design identifying the fisherman's home village and serving as a personal emblem on the open sea. The weathervanes feature intricate cut-out designs combining geometric patterns, animal figures, and symbols specific to each village community. Today, they can be seen in museums along the Curonian Spit and decorating houses in the traditional fishing villages. The Maritime Museum in Klaipėda has an excellent collection.

Why Visit

A unique piece of maritime folk art found nowhere else on Earth. The weathervanes reveal the distinctive culture of the Curonian Spit fishing communities.

History

The tradition dates back centuries. Each village had its own distinctive weathervane design. The craft nearly died out but has been revived as cultural heritage.

55.5333, 21.1167

Visitor Tips

1The Maritime Museum has the best collection
2Look for weathervanes on houses in Juodkrantė and Nida
3Each design tells a story about its village
4Small weathervane replicas make unique souvenirs

Nearby Locations

Wooden witch sculpture among pine trees on the Hill of Witches

Hill of Witches (Raganų Kalnas)

An enchanting trail through the pine forests of Juodkrantė on the Curonian Spit, lined with over 80 fantastical wooden sculptures of witches, devils, and characters from Lithuanian folklore.

Curonian Spit Grey Dunes

The dramatic shifting sand dunes of the Curonian Spit — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where massive dunes have buried entire villages and continue to reshape the landscape.

NeringaFull day