Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a city that has its roots in the 14th ceury; But today it exhibits a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1970s, this coury we through a difficult time and struggled with unemployme and insecurity; But with the beginning of the 21st ceury, Vilnius revived and flourished. (national geographic)
The architecture of the city is also a reflection of this tumultuous history and is a combination of ceuries-old buildings in “Baroque” and “Classic” styles alongside rough concrete structures and modern glass skyscrapers. This corast is quite evide, especially in the “old fabric of the city” registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Neris river divides the city io two halves; If you cross the bridges of the city, you will eer the modern part and the area of tech companies from the historical coext. However, the true spirit of Vilnius still flows in the same old cobbled streets.
Christmas atmosphere in the city markets
Cathedral Square hosts a large Christmas market filled with small wooden huts. Everything is found here; From gingerbread and handmade chocolates to hot drinks and handicrafts.
Photographer: unknown / www.rucksack.se
One of the fun eves is the “Holiday Fun Run” where participas run through the streets dressed as Saa Claus, reindeer, etc. Because of this ehusiasm and high social spirit, the “European Christmas Cities Network” has officially chosen Vilnius as the “Christmas Capital of Europe” this year.
A prison that became a hangout of light and music
The historical prison of the city is an excelle example of the change of use in this city. This place, which was once the city’s most dreaded prison for keeping dangerous criminals, has now become a large cultural campus. Today, in the cells and courtyards of this prison, instead of prisoners, you can see art studios, cafes and large concert venues.
Photographer: Malika Bowling / www.nationalgeographic.com
Even famous series like Stranger Things have been filmed here. One of the tour guides says:
Isn’t it amazing? What was once the darkest part of the city is now full of light, art and music.
In addition, the MO Museum with its unique architecture houses a collection of 5,000 modern works of art that define the ideity of Lithuania today.
A differe experience for belly touring
In rece years, Vilnius has become an exciting destination for food lovers, and now its restauras have received the prestigious Michelin stars. The city’s creative chefs combine traditional cuisine with modern techniques.
Photographer: Unknown / www.kochfreunde.com
For example, in one of the famous restauras, the Tasting Menu has 10 strange items; Like an oyster served on a bed of lichen or a pizza made from thin slices of celery root instead of dough! Other restauras also use the “farm-to-table” style, bringing ingredies directly from farms around the city to preserve the autheic Lithuanian taste.
Sauna and diving in the frozen river
You cannot go to Northern Europe and not experience a sauna. One of the most special places is the wooden huts floating on the river.
Photographer: Unknown / amazingarchitecture.com
If you are looking for a great experience, you can try the sauna and spa; In this case, experts use tree branches that have just been immersed in the raging waters of the river to circulate hot air inside the sauna. And if you dare, you can jump directly io the frozen river after the hot sauna, according to the traditions of Northern Europe!
The self-proclaimed republic of artists
But perhaps the strangest part of the city is the neighborhood called Užupis. In the 90s, this area was a poor and abandoned neighborhood where artists took refuge due to low re. In 1997, the resides of this neighborhood declared independence in a symbolic and humorous move!
They have their own constitution, flag, national ahem and even a preside. Although this “coury” has no official political status; But it is a symbol of the free spirit of the people of this region. Today, the streets of Ojopis are full of galleries, art sculptures and murals.
Photographer: unknown / baltic-review.com
What do you think was the strangest thing you read about Vilnius in this article? Share your opinion with us and other audience.
Cover photo source: www.museme.com Photographer: Unknown
