SIGHTSEEING IN VILNIUS
Lithuania's capital was founded in 1323 when Grand Duke
Gediminas built a fortress on the riverbank of the Neris.
The fortress' ruins now are the town's landmark.
* CHURCHES
The church of Saint Anne, which was built in the 16th century,
is considered to be a gothic masterpiece. Although the Renaissance
had an influence on the city only over a limited period
of time, it has left some notable monuments, above all the
16th century Gates of Dawn as part of the defence wall,
Saint Michael's church, and some of the University courtyards.
To
our Picture Gallery
The 17th century's Sts. Peter and Paul's church is a masterpiece
of Vilnius' Baroque architecture. Its interior is adorned
with approximately 2,000 biblical, mythological and historical
statues.
At the end of the 18th century, during Classicism, the
City Hall, the Verkiai Manor and the Cathedral were built.
Lithuania's famous architect Laurynas Stuoka-Gucevicius
designed the Cathedral based on the principle that the beauty
of a building should not be determined by its adornments
but by the harmony between its parts and the whole.
To
our Picture Gallery
* THE GATES OF DAWN
The 16th century Gates of Dawn originally formed part of
the town's fortifications. They were built into the original
city wall. In 1671 Carmelites built a chapel in the gates
dedicated to the holy Virgin Mary, reputed for her miracle-working
powers. The chapel's interior was renovated in the neo-classical
style in 1829. Pope John Paul II visited the site during
his stay in Lithuania.
* GEDIMINAS FORTRESS AND MUSEUM
From the top of the 78 steps up the western tower of the
Higher Castle, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the
city. Originating in the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt
in 1419 by Grand Duke Vytautas following the great fire
of Vilnius. In 1610 it was used as a prison, and during
the 1655-1661 Russian occupation its towers and defensive
walls were almost completely destroyed. Restoration work
only began in 1930. The tower museum presents models of
the castle in its various stages of development together
with other exhibits of historical value.
To
our Picture Gallery
* VILNIUS UNIVERSITY
The famous University was founded in 1579. It is famous
for its impressive buildings of outstanding architectural
value which are located right in the heart of the Old Town.
Its twelve large courtyards and seminar rooms are well worth
a visit. The University's library - one of the most
outstanding centres of Lithuanian science and culture -
has been serving scholars and scientists for 429 years.
It even has an in-house printing plant. Visitors should
not miss out on the magnificent ceiling paintings in the
university book shop.
