Tasting tour: How many nations and dishes in Trakai
We start our journey from the old Lithuanian capital Trakai, surrounded by lakes. After traversing the old town of Trakai, we will visit the castle on one of the islands of the majestic Lake Galvė. It is probably impossible to imagine not only that Trakai, but also the whole of Lithuania without this castle on the island. It is protected not only by high masonry walls, but also by the clear water of the lake. In addition, Trakai Castle is the only Gothic castle on the island in all of Europe!
Behind the stone and red brick masonry walls hides a huge courtyard and the palace of the Grand Dukes, whose main tower rises up to 35 meters high. Walking through the palace of the dukes, we will visit the great art where the rulers received foreign envoys, see what ancient treasures and jewels look like, what nations live in Trakai and how their customs fit, we will get acquainted with the history of Trakai castle and city.
Those who have lost their sightings in the castle will be invited to the Karaites. The Karaites are the smallest nation of Turkic origin living in Lithuania. The first Karaites were the guards of Duke Vytautas. Not only were they vigilant in guarding the princes, but they also deliciously prepared their traditional dishes. We will taste the delicious kibinas made of real Karaites, we will hear many interesting things about the customs and traditions of the Karaites. By the way, did you know that our Duke Vytautas the Great, called Katat Bij by the Karaites, which means “King who crushes enemies”.
The Karaites offer to be brave and try to twist the kibin yourself. At first glance, it seems easy. And just try not to get lost – you probably won’t succeed. And those who love romance will be able to take a boat ride on the waves of Lake Galvė, admire the grandeur of Trakai Castle, the beauty of Užutrakis manor and nature.
The Karaites offer to be brave and try to twist the kibin themselves. At first glance, it seems easy. And just try not to get lost – you probably won’t succeed. And those who love romance will be able to take a boat ride on the waves of Lake Galvė, admire the grandeur of Trakai Castle, the beauty of Užutrakis manor and nature and then taste the kibinas.
Or in Trakai we offer to get acquainted not only with the Karaites, but also with Tatars who came from Crimea together with Duke Vytautas. The main activity of the Tatars was war – they formed Vytautas’ personal guard. The soldiers of this nation became known as extremely brave and loyal – it was practically impossible to bribe them. Together with Vytautas, the Tatars took part in the famous Battle of Grunwald. While in Trakai, we will taste these dishes of brave warriors and guards, which gave the Tatars strength. During the tasting, Tatar cuisine is introduced. Each participant tastes a real Tatar mini cheburek with pork. This is followed by a tasting mini cheburek with lamb and beef. The tasting ends with a Tartar dessert – a šimtalapis cake is tasted.
For sweets lovers, we can offer you to visit the chocolate “AJ chocolate” in Trakai. This is an extraordinary place. Here we will also see incredible figures and sculptures made of real chocolate. After looking at the chocolate works of art and we will participate in the chocolate making education ourselves. You will see not only how real chocolate masters make delicacies, but you will also try to make them yourself. And let’s not forget to make fun when cooking.
Trakai is not only the beloved home of Karaites and Tatars in Lithuania, but also the old residence of Lithuanian dukes. Therefore, during this trip it is possible to choose a tasting of real Lithuanian dishes. During this tasting, we will try saturated Lithuanian cuisine, the dishes of which are in no way inferior to the dishes of other nations. It’s full, it’s delicious.
