The Best of Lithuania

Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town (Vilniaus senamiestis) is one of the largest surviving medieval old towns in Northern Europe
It features a vast collection of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical buildings, all set within a well-preserved medieval layout
Established as the capital in the 14th century, the Old Town is characterized by winding cobblestone streets where visitors can explore numerous churches and historical buildings

Trakai Island Castle is a historic castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, near the town of Trakai
It is renowned for its Gothic architecture and serves as a significant example of medieval defensive architecture in Eastern Europe
The castle was constructed in the late 14th century and served as the main residence for the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
Today, it functions as a museum, where visitors can explore various chambers, including the Great Hall and the Chapel, and view original artifacts and medieval brickwork

The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights in Vilnius, is a significant institution dedicated to documenting and preserving the history of Lithuania's struggles against foreign occupations, particularly during the Soviet era
The museum focuses on the period of Soviet occupation, which lasted approximately 50 years, and includes exhibits on the Nazi occupation as well
The museum is housed in a building that served as a KGB prison, where visitors can see original KGB cells and torture chambers, providing a stark reminder of the repression faced by many Lithuanians
The exhibitions cover various aspects of Lithuania's fight for freedom, including the guerrilla warfare from 1944 to 1953
-The museum serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Lithuanian people and their ongoing commitment to preserving their history and freedoms

Lukiškės Prison is a historic prison located in the center of Vilnius
Established in 1904, it served as a penal institution for over a century, housing some of Lithuania's most notorious criminals
In 2019, Lukiškės Prison was officially closed, and it has since undergone a transformation into a cultural venue known as Lukiškės Prison 2.0.
The prison's history is marked by its use as a place of torture and confinement during various political regimes, including the Russian Empire
Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural rebirth, reflecting Lithuania's evolving identity

Gediminas' Tower (Gedimino pilies bokštas) is a historic fortification located on Gediminas Hill in Vilnius
It is the last remaining part of the Upper Castle, which was originally built in the 15th century
The tower is significant not only for its architectural value but also for its historical importance as a symbol of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania
Gediminas' Tower is a remarkable example of medieval castle architecture, showcasing craftsmanship from the 15th century, including walls made of red brick and stone
The tower houses a museum and offers panoramic views of Vilnius from its lookout point, that visitors can access via steep steps or a funicular

Three Crosses is a prominent monument located on the Hill of Three Crosses in Vilnius
The crosses serve as a memorial to seven Franciscan martyrs who were executed during the reign of Grand Duke Algirdas in the 14th century
The origins of the crosses date back to the early 17th century, when wooden crosses were first erected at this location
Over the years, they have become a significant symbol of Vilnius and an integral part of the city's skyline