Gintališkė Village, Lithuania

Gintališkė is a small and peaceful village in western Lithuania, located in the Plungė District Municipality (Platelių area), along the road connecting Plateliai and Salantai, about 6 km west of Plateliai. Despite its modest size, the village plays a local role as an administrative centre (a seniūnaitija centre) and is home to a post office.

The landscape of Gintališkė is shaped by water and greenery. The Salantas River flows through the village, together with its tributary Kūlupis, creating a calm natural atmosphere typical of the Samogitia region. This connection to rivers and valley scenery makes the village attractive for travellers who enjoy quiet countryside routes and authentic regional landscapes.

Gintališkė is also valued for its cultural heritage. One of its most important landmarks is the Church of St. Matthew the Apostle and Evangelist, a traditional wooden church, accompanied by a separate belfry (varpinė). The church and belfry stand next to the historic Gintališkė manor area and together form a protected historical ensemble, giving the village a strong architectural identity.

Sources also highlight the long development of the parish and church site, which has evolved over centuries through reconstructions and expansions, while preserving the character of rural Lithuanian sacred architecture. In this way, Gintališkė represents a place where nature, local traditions and historical continuity remain closely connected.

Additionally, the area around the village includes archaeological references such as the Gintališkė hillfort and ancient burial ground, suggesting that the settlement has deeper historical layers beyond its present-day rural appearance. This makes Gintališkė an appealing stop for visitors who want to explore lesser-known Lithuania and experience a blend of landscape, heritage and quiet authenticity.