The Nemunas, also known as the Niemen (Lithuanian: Nemunas, Belarusian: Нёман, Russian: Неман), is one of the most important rivers in Eastern Europe. It originates in Belarus, about 45 km south of Minsk, and flows through Lithuania before emptying into the Curonian Spit and finally into the Baltic Sea. At about 937 km long, it is the longest river in Lithuania.
The Nemunas crosses Belarus and Lithuania, partially forming the border with Russia (Kaliningrad), and flows through cities such as Grodno (Belarus), Kaunas, and Klaipėda (Lithuania). Its delta in the Curonian Spit is an ecologically important area.
Significance: Historically and culturally, the Nemunas is central to Lithuania, often referred to as the "Father of Lithuanian Rivers." It has been an important trade route and plays a significant role in Lithuanian literature and identity.
The river is used for shipping, energy generation (e.g., the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant), and fishing. Its catchment area covers approximately 98,000 km².
The Neman Delta is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with rich biodiversity, including rare bird species and wetlands.
Historical name: In Germany, "Memel" is the common name, derived from the time when the area around Klaipėda (Memel) was part of Prussia.
The Neman River is a symbol of the region's connection between nature, culture, and history.