The capital of Lithuania is a cozy and charming city located at the mouth of Wilejka to Wilia. Its old town combines Gothic elements and the richness of Baroque buildings, and the former artists' district, Zarzecze, attracts with restaurants, pubs and night life.
Vilnius was founded in the 11th century and became the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in the 14th century. For centuries, it served as the second-largest center of Poland after Krakow and then Warsaw.
The oldest monument in Vilnius is the Gediminas Tower standing on the hill, which is part of the former Upper Castle. Today it is a beautiful viewpoint on the city. Below is the rebuilt Renaissance Lower Castle, which now houses the seats of museums and cultural institutions. Another place from which you can admire the panorama of Vilnius is the Three Crosses Mountain.
Stretched below the castle surrounded by the remains of defensive walls, Vilnius Old Town is on the UNESCO list. There are about 40 historic churches here, including the magnificent cathedral with a crypt of merits and the dazzling Baroque church of St. Peter and Paul in Antikol. Picturesque houses from different periods can be seen on the cobbled streets. This district adds charm to the often held fairs and handicrafts markets here, including the largest "Kaziuków" market.
Vilnius is also an important center of religious worship. The image of the Mother of God placed in the Gate of Dawn is venerated and considered wonderful. Crowds of pilgrims from Lithuania and Poland come to him.
Outside the Old Town is the Zarzecze district, with low, colorful houses, street sculptures and the beautiful church of St. Anna in the style of flaming Gothic. Formerly artists had their homes here, today it is the most entertaining part of Vilnius with bars open until late.
