Elder villagers of Ramygala call their native village Ožkauostis(In
Lithuanian language this means The Harbour of Goats). This name has come
from XVI century, when in 1580 The Great Duke of Lithuania and The King
of Poland Steponas Batoras granted privilegies for Ramygala to organise
fairs every three years. In these fairs salt, iron rims, sickles and
other good were being sold by craftsman. Markets were also famous for
its local small horses-ponies which according to native people were
called "goats". These goats were fed with hey and grass and were very
strong, reliable and perserving. People who lived in swampy areas could
not live without them. Maybe that is why Ramygala is called the capital
of Goats. Besides, most of Ramygala villagers used to keep some goats in
their farms not very long ago. Goat - is a smbol and talisman of the
village. There even were some ideas to put an icon of goat in the herb
of town.
Nowadays, nothing has chabged - Ramygala is still a town
connected with goats. 2010, when Ramygala
was announced to be The
Capital of Lithuanian Culture, this symbol became well known in all
Lithuania. To celebrate the Days of Cultural Capital (more about
Ramygala
www.ramygala.lt)
on 5th July Goat parade is going to be held. During the event the most
beautiful goats will be selected to win the nominations of: Miss
Photogenic, Miss Elegance,Miss audience conqueror and Miss idea (more in
section „Nominations"). This event is unique and has never been held in
Lithuania before. During the festival not only local people will
participate, but guests from other cities and even neighbour countries
as well.
This event is a possibility to gather together,
celebrate and form new traditions. This is a historic chance for
everyone in Aukstaitija region to show their traditions
and hospitabilitviečiame. We also invite and encourage all owners of
goats to register to this theatrical parade and win worthy prizes!
