The old town of Vilnius, Lithuania, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the historical and cultural heritage of the country. It is one of the largest and most beautiful old towns in Europe, with a rich architectural diversity that reflects the influences of different eras and nations. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the highlights and attractions of this charming place, and why you should visit it at least once in your lifetime.
The old town of Vilnius covers an area of about 3.6 square kilometers, and contains more than 1,500 buildings dating from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The most prominent feature of the old town is the Vilnius Cathedral, which stands at the foot of Gediminas Hill, where the city was founded in the 14th century. The cathedral is a masterpiece of classical architecture, with a majestic facade and a splendid interior decorated with frescoes, sculptures and paintings. The cathedral also houses the Chapel of St. Casimir, the patron saint of Lithuania, and the crypts of several Lithuanian kings and nobles.
Another landmark of the old town is the Gediminas Castle Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the Neris River. The tower is the only surviving part of the Upper Castle, which was built by Grand Duke Gediminas in the 13th century as a defensive fortress. The tower now hosts a museum that displays historical artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Vilnius and Lithuania.
The old town of Vilnius is also known for its numerous churches, which represent different styles and denominations. Some of the most notable ones are:
– The Church of St. Anne, a Gothic masterpiece that is said to have impressed Napoleon so much that he wanted to take it to Paris on his palm.
– The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, a Baroque gem that boasts over 2,000 stucco figures and a stunning altar.
– The Church of St. Francis and St. Bernard, a Gothic-Renaissance complex that was once part of a Franciscan monastery.
– The Church of St. Nicholas, the oldest surviving church in Vilnius, dating from the 14th century.
– The Church of St. Michael and St. Constantine, a neoclassical edifice that serves as the main Orthodox church in Vilnius.
The old town of Vilnius also offers a variety of cultural and entertainment options for visitors. You can explore the bohemian district of Užupis, which declared itself an independent republic in 1997 and has its own constitution, flag and anthem. You can also visit the Vilnius University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Eastern Europe, founded in 1579. The university has a beautiful campus with several courtyards, arcades and frescoes. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere of Pilies Street, the main pedestrian street in the old town, lined with cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and art galleries.
The old town of Vilnius is a place where history meets modernity, where tradition blends with innovation, where beauty inspires creativity. It is a place that will enchant you with its charm and diversity, and make you fall in love with Lithuania.
