The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Vilnius

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and has a rich history that spans over 700 years. Here are the top 10 most interesting facts about this beautiful city.

1. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Vilnius’ Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. The area comprises around 360 hectares and contains more than 2,000 buildings.

2. Vilnius has the most significant Baroque architecture in Eastern Europe

Vilnius is known for its Baroque architecture, which was a popular style in the 17th and 18th centuries. The city has the most extensive collection of Baroque buildings in Eastern Europe.

3. Vilnius University is one of the oldest universities in Central Europe

Vilnius University was founded in 1579 and is one of the oldest universities in Central Europe. Famous alumni include the Nobel Prize-winning poet Czesław Miłosz.

4. The city has the highest number of churches per capita in Europe

Vilnius is known as the “Rome of the North” due to its high number of churches. The city has 28 churches in the Old Town alone and a total of over 50 churches in the city.

5. Vilnius has a self-proclaimed independent republic

In 1997, a group of artists declared the area of Užupis, located in the Old Town of Vilnius, an independent republic. The area has its constitution, anthem, and flag and is a popular tourist destination.

6. The first-ever printed book in the Baltic states was published in Vilnius

The first-ever printed book in the Baltic states, “The Simple Words of Catechism,” was published in Vilnius in 1547.

7. Vilnius has an extensive network of underground tunnels

Vilnius has an extensive network of underground tunnels that run underneath the Old Town. Some of these tunnels were used for smuggling, while others were used as bomb shelters during World War II.

8. The city was once known as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania”

Before World War II, Vilnius was home to a large Jewish community and was known as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania.” During the war, most of the Jewish population was killed in the Holocaust.

9. Vilnius has the only Frank Zappa statue in the world

Vilnius is home to the only Frank Zappa statue in the world. The statue was erected to honor the artist, who expressed admiration for the self-proclaimed Užupis Republic.

10. The city is home to the tallest building in the Baltic states

The Europa Tower, located in Vilnius, is the tallest building in the Baltic states. It measures 148 meters and has 34 floors.

These are just some of the most interesting facts about Vilnius. The city has so much more to offer, including its vibrant cultural scene, delicious food, and friendly people. If you’re planning a trip to Europe, Vilnius should definitely be on your list!

The Insider’s Guide to Vilnius: Lithuania’s Capital City

Vilnius is the capital and largest city of Lithuania, situated in the southeast part of the country. It is one of Europe’s most charming and vibrant cities, with a fascinating history, rich culture, and a burgeoning food and drink scene. In this insider’s guide, we’ll highlight the 10 most interesting facts about Vilnius and suggest some must-visit attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for tourists visiting this beautiful city.

Facts About Vilnius

1. Vilnius is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history dating back to the 14th century.

2. The Old Town of Vilnius is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning Baroque architecture, cobbled streets, and charming courtyards.

3. Vilnius is often called the city of churches, with over 50 churches located within its boundaries.

4. The city is known for its love of jazz, with an annual Vilnius Jazz Festival attracting music lovers from around the world.

5. Vilnius is home to some of Europe’s most exciting contemporary art galleries and museums, showcasing the work of both local and international artists.

6. The city’s cuisine has been heavily influenced by traditional Lithuanian recipes, with dishes like cepelinai (dumplings filled with meat or cheese), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and kibinai (pastries with meat or vegetable fillings) being popular with locals and tourists alike.

7. Vilnius has a strong coffee culture, with independent cafes and specialty roasters popping up throughout the city.

8. Lithuania was the last country in Europe to adopt Christianity, with the Grand Duke of Lithuania only converting to Christianity in the 14th century.

9. Vilnius has a thriving nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and music venues catering to all tastes.

10. The city has a rich Jewish heritage, with a large Jewish community living in Vilnius before WWII. Today, the city is home to the Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum and a number of synagogues.

Attractions

1. The Old Town: Wander through the charming cobbled streets and admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the Old Town.

2. Gediminas Castle: Explore this 14th-century castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views of Vilnius and the surrounding countryside.

3. St. Anne’s Church: Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of this beautiful church, located in the heart of the Old Town.

4. Vilnius Cathedral: Visit Vilnius’ main cathedral, which has been a symbol of the city for centuries and houses the stunning Chapel of St Casimir.

5. Užupis: Explore this bohemian district, known for its independent art galleries, chic cafes, and quirky boutiques. Užupis is also home to the Republic of Užupis, a self-declared independent state within the city limits.

Dining Spots

1. Sweet Root: This Michelin-starred restaurant takes a contemporary approach to traditional Lithuanian cuisine, using local, seasonal ingredients to create stunning dishes.

2. Lokys: Sample some traditional Lithuanian game dishes, like wild boar or venison, at this cozy and atmospheric restaurant.

3. Bernelių Užeiga: This popular restaurant chain serves up hearty Lithuanian dishes in a warm and welcoming environment.

4. Neringa: This iconic Viennese-style cafe is the perfect spot for a coffee and slice of cake, and was a favorite haunt of the city’s literati during the Soviet era.

5. Holy Donut: Indulge your sweet tooth at this popular donut shop, which serves up innovative and delicious flavors like matcha or raspberry and rose.

Cultural Experiences

1. MO Museum: This contemporary art museum showcases the work of both Lithuanian and international artists in a variety of mediums.

2. Opera House: Catch a performance at the stunning Vilnius Opera House, which hosts a range of operas, ballets, and concerts throughout the year.

3. KGB Museum: This museum, housed in the former KGB headquarters, offers a chilling glimpse into the brutal regime of the Soviet era.

4. National Museum of Lithuania: Learn about the country’s rich history and cultural heritage at this excellent museum, located in the heart of Vilnius.

5. Vilna Gaon Jewish State Museum: This museum, located in the former Jewish ghetto, explores the city’s Jewish heritage and the devastating impact of WWII.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Bernardine Cemetery: This atmospheric cemetery is the final resting place of many famous Lithuanians, and its overgrown and somewhat eerie atmosphere makes for a fascinating visit.

2. Republic of Užupis: Explore this independent state within the city limits, known for its artistic and bohemian vibe.

3. Open-Air Markets: Explore one of Vilnius’ many open-air markets, which offer a range of goods from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

4. The Hill of Three Crosses: Hike up to the top of this hill, which is home to three huge crosses and offers amazing views over the city.

5. Belmontas: This charming district, located just outside of Vilnius, is home to a 19th-century mill and a range of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip.

Conclusion

Vilnius is a truly unique city, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a range of exciting attractions and experiences to offer. From exploring the stunning architecture of the Old Town to indulging in traditional Lithuanian cuisine and learning about the city’s Jewish heritage, there is something for everyone in this charming and dynamic city. We hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to plan your own visit to Vilnius.