The fast-growing city of Vilnius - the capital of which country? It is the largest city in Lithuania, an important center of science, culture and sports. In the Lithuanian capital there are many parks, trees, lawns and other green spaces that delight the eye with a bright palette of summer colors. Green spaces - parks and forests - make up a fairly large part of Vilnius city. The capital of which country, if not Lithuania, will satisfy the desire of travelers to combine a visit to the amazing historical places of the old city and enjoy nature. The old city is an architectural marvel and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Recently, the Old Town has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Foundation History
According to legend, Prince Gediminas founded the city in a place where he dreamed of an iron wolf in a dream. In fact, the first settlement was formed by the Protobalts, and the heyday came during the reign of the Gedimins. The prince invited artisans, merchants and clergy from Western Europe to Vilnius, mentioning the two Catholic churches of the city, promising them a position and privileges. His letters in Latin in 1323 are the first mention of the existence of the city of Vilnius.
Capital of Lithuania
Many city buildings are witnesses of the country's history. On Castle Hill you can admire the Gediminas Tower, which was part of the Upper Castle of the Lithuanian Princes. At the foot of the hill, next to the cathedral, is the palace of the Grand Duke of Lithuania, reconstructed in 2009. There is also a presidential palace (formerly governor's). Vilnius also has many other historical and religious sights.
The country was the last pagan state in Europe and the only one that was forced to convert to Christianity in 1387. Today 79% of Lithuanians are Catholics.
Numerous churches in Vilnius city
Which country’s capital can still boast so many historical Catholic and Orthodox churches that have been moving from Orthodox to Uniates and Catholics? In the Soviet era, many of them were closed and deprived of religious functions. Vilnius churches represent various architectural styles, such as Gothic or Classicism, but Baroque remains one of the most popular styles of urban architecture. Vilnius has its own, “Vilnius” version of the baroque, a vivid example of this is the Peter and Paul Church in the Antakalnis district.
North jerusalem
They used to say: "If you need money, go to Lodz, and if you need wisdom - go to Vilnius." The capital of which country even at that time granted such rights to Jews? In the city, they were allowed to engage in trade, to freely study at Vilnius University or at numerous Talmudic schools. Jewish newspapers were published here, schools and libraries worked, religious life flourished. Religious life. In 1939, there were 105 synagogues and houses of worship in Vilnius, and Jews accounted for about 30% of the population.
Montmartre brother
The former craft district of Vilnius Uzupis was chosen by artists; at the end of the 20th century it was declared the Republic of Uzupis. This region is considered the twin brother of the Montmartre district in Paris.