Feb
24

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is considered to be one of the most valuable cultural heritage cities in what once used to be referred to as the Eastern Bloc. Not only is it a present-day seat of government, it is also a crucial business centre in Lithuania and its architectural treasures are yet another aspect of the city that attracts potential visitors.
With a population of nearly 580,000 inhabitants, Vilnius, is the largest city in the country.
It has a long and very rich history mirrored in it”s striking architectural layout. The best place to start any tour is the Old Town, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994. The possibilities are truly vast. Those interested in religious history will be absorbed by the 40 preserved churches in the area. The most outstanding is St. Anne’s Church, originally build from wood in the 14th century. The Franciscans rebuild it from brick two hundred years later. Its special character turned St. Anne’s Church into a symbol of Vilnius. Among the other religious buildings, the Cathedral – the first Christian church in Vilnius - is well worth visiting, as are the churches of Saints Peter and Paul and of St. Casismir. Many monuments and building were raised in honor of the Grand Duke Gediminas, the founder of the city.Other interesting sites include the Bastion of Vilnius City Wall, an original Renaissance fortification, the bell tower of the Cathedral which stands on the fortifications of the Lower Castle, or the Gates of Dawn, the only surviving gate (originally, there were 10) to the city. This dates from 514.
Some of the most popular walks are around Vilnius Old Town, a trip to the Medieval City, or Vilnius Legends – A Ghostly Trip.
Theatre goers and art lovers will be overwhelmed with the rich cultural life found here. There are eight theaters, five concert halls, three cinemas and several other entertainment centers catering for young children.
Vilnius deserves a visit, especially now as the city is getting ready to become the European Capital of Culture in 2009.


