Linen is one of the oldest textiles in the world, dating back 9,000 years. Linum usitatissimum, the linseed plant from which flax fibre is extracted, was first cultivated in Asia and the Mediterranean region. In Palestine and Egypt, linen fabric was considered sacred, used by the ancient Egyptians not only for clothing, but also for prayers, sacrifices and mummification of pharaohs. With the advent of the Renaissance, linen began to be used by aristocrats to decorate their tables, and was considered a sign of luxury by the people of the time.

It is believed that flax was first cultivated in Lithuania 4,000 years ago and that it was indispensable in the ancient Lithuanian household and in various other areas. Lithuanians, like the Egyptians, considered flax to be a sacred plant and believed that it had extraordinary powers to protect against evil spirits, devils and witches. Linas is also mentioned in many of the oldest Lithuanian folk stories and songs. They were intended to encourage the growth of flax and to celebrate its special powers.