Lithuania is also referred to as the Amber Land. Amber is known as “Lithuanian gold. Amber found at the Baltic Sea was taken by seaside merchants along the Amber Road to the farthest countries of Europe and Asia, even reaching Egypt. And though it has been used as an adornment for centuries, it has also been used to treat illness and pains.
The capital of Lithuania was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. It contains one of the largest surviving medieval quarters in Europe. The Old Town, marvellously intact, contains almost 2.000 medieval, gothic, renaissance, and baroque buildings. The 13th century Higher Castle affords a glorious view of the city centre. Vilnius was one of the largest Jewish centres in Europe, which has led Napoleon to name it "the Jerusalem of the North" when he passed through in 1812, but its Jewish community was largely destroyed in WWII. However Vilnius does not hide this, or any other of its historic scars. You will find reminders of its rich history scattered throughout the city.
Though a capital city, Vilnius feels much like an overgrown village. From one of the many hot air balloons you will have a stunning view on the maze of little streets, its many green spaces which cover around 40% of its area, its countless Catholic and Orthodox church spires and the self-declared micro-nation of Užupis. On 1 April 1997, this district (the name means “over the river”) declared itself a separate republic, forming a bohemian commune with a president, foreign ministry and even a constitution.
From the romantic winding streets of the Old Town to the modern city that is reinventing itself every day: Feel the Vilnius vibe and explore what to see and do at Go Vilnius - Think Fresh.
