Long ago, by the shore of a tranquil lake, there lived a brother and sister — Ignas and Lina. Orphans, they had only each other, bound by love and care that knew no bounds.
Ignas was strong and brave, a young man of courage; Lina was gentle and beautiful, with a heart full of kindness. Together they tended their home, fished in the lake, and grew their bread. Their life was simple, yet filled with happiness.
One day, a wealthy prince came to their land. Upon seeing Lina, he desired her as his bride. But she did not love him, and she refused. Enraged, the prince resolved to take her by force.
When they tried to seize Lina, Ignas rose to defend his sister. The battle was unequal — the prince had many warriors. Ignas fell, defending Lina, and overcome with grief, the young girl cast herself into the lake.
The people said that after her death, the waters of the lake became especially clear and sorrowful. The place where the siblings had lived came to be known as Ignalina — in memory of brave Ignas and devoted Lina.
Thus, the city’s name carries within it the story of two lives forever intertwined — Ignas and Lina.
