Hello, what’s your name? I’m Urkė. People used to say that I’m a mysterious water goddess. I live here, in the depths of Lake Urkis.

Have you ever heard the lake whisper quietly at night? That’s actually me telling stories. Come closer — and I’ll tell you.
My time begins when the evening sun sets, and the moon bathes the lake in silver light. Then I cover the lake with a blanket—a thick fog—and gently hide my home from human eyes. In complete silence, you can hear my song. They call it ‘Urkė’s sutartinė’ (a traditional Lithuanian polyphonic song).

To people, my voice seems strange, mysterious, and sometimes even a bit eerie. It sounds like not one, but a hundred women are singing. The song echoes through the fog, blending with the rustling reeds and birds’ voices, making it hard for people to understand where it’s coming from. That’s why they named this lake Urkis, as my voice reminded them of a deep, muffled moaning or wail.

In ancient times, people greatly respected Lake Urkis. They even brought me gifts: the first fish they caught or a beautiful, smooth pebble. People believed that my song reminded them of the importance of respecting nature and being grateful to it.

But be careful! My voice lures people closer to the water, sometimes even into the swampy marsh. It’s true, I don’t wish harm upon anyone—I just want to remind you: the night and fog are full of mysteries, so it’s best to stay home and listen to my song from afar. Those who respect nature and don’t try to disturb it — for them, the fog will be a friend, and my song — a beautiful tale.

Some say they’ve seen me—as a silhouette of light in the fog above the water. Whether it’s true or not, let it remain a mystery… But I can share a little trick with you: if you want to hear me, come to Inturkė, don’t get too close to avoid sinking into the swamp, close your eyes, take a quiet breath, and listen very, very carefully…

Then, perhaps, you’ll hear my gentle voice wrapped in the night’s fog.
Remember: my song exists so that you would respect the beauty and mystery of nature.