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Vilnius Holidays, Hotels & Travel Guide
Travel guide to hotels & holidays in Vilnius
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Vilnius Holidays Overview
A guide to holidays in Vilnius - The Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is somewhat
unique compared to the major cities in the rest of the Baltic
States, its old architecture being a hodge-podge of styles with
Scandinavian, Russian and German influences. The mix blends well
into a charming 'Vilnian Baroque', that fills the cobblestone
winding streets of the old quarter. The city is further enhanced by
its picturesque setting in a valley at the confluence of the Neris
and Vilnia rivers, nestling beneath wooded hills in the south-east
corner of Lithuania.
Overlooking the city from a
central hill is the landmark Gediminas Castle (named for the
medieval Grand Duke who founded the city) with its impressive
tower, from which visitors can enjoy an unrivalled view of the old
town and the shiny new section on the right bank of the Neris.
Gediminas Square is the heart of the old quarter, featuring the
splendid classical cathedral. The city boasts numerous other
interesting churches, beautiful historic buildings, museums,
monuments and parks, and the splendid University of Vilnius, one of
Europe's oldest institutions of learning, chartered in
1579. In its 'golden age' in the Middle Ages,
Vilnius was renowned as the region's centre for culture and
learning, and today it has reclaimed that reputation, with a packed
programme of events always on the go, from classical music evenings
at the Philharmonic Society Hall and performances at the Opera and
Ballet Theatre, Youth Theatre and Academic Drama Theatre to
exhibitions in seven art galleries and a vast modern art centre.
The city also plays host to numerous commercial fairs and
exhibitions annually. Last, but not least, when
the sun goes down Vilnius reveals the fun side of its nature, with
a nightlife that is fast gaining a reputation as the hottest in
Eastern Europe.
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Vilnius
holidays - Top Places To Go
1. Gediminas Castle
Arsenalo g. 5
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What is it? Standing sentinel over Vilnius since the 13th
century, the landmark Gediminas Castle was built by the founder of
the city, and has served as defence bastion, prison, and now major
tourist attraction. Originally the castle was made of wood, later
clad in 10ft (3m) thick stone walls, and then all but destroyed by
Russian troops in the 17th century. Now completely and carefully
restored to its former glory, the top of the majestic octagonal
tower provides a breathtaking view of the old city. The castle also
contains a museum depicting the history of Lithuania and Vilnius,
exhibits including models of the city at various points in history
and archaeological finds.
Hours of Operation:
Phone:(526) 17453 |
2. Cathedral
Katedros Square
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What is it? The resplendent Vilnius Cathedral, which
stands proudly on the central square of the Old City, has a
chequered history that left it decaying and abandoned through the
Soviet era. The Cathedral, which resembles a classical Greek temple
more than it does a Christian church, is now once again the pride
of the city, filled with awesome artworks, traditional icons and
history. The cathedral, originally built in the 13th century,
stands on the site of an ancient pagan temple, and has been rebuilt
several times in the succeeding centuries after fires and storm
damage. It contains more than 40 paintings and frescoes. Most
noteworthy is the Casimir Chapel, first constructed in 1623,
containing eight silver-plated statues and décor wrought by artist
Constantino Tencallo.
Hours of Operation:
Phone:(526) 11127 |
3. European Park
Joneikiskiu
www.europosparkas.lt |
What is it? A few miles north of Vilnius town centre
Lithuanian sculptor Gintaras Karosas founded the Europos Parkas
(European Park) on a 55-hectare site that encompasses the
geographic centre of Europe, as determined by the French National
Geographic Institute in 1989. The Park attracts hundreds of
thousands of visitors a year, who come to admire a permanent
outdoor sculpture exhibition, set amid rolling hills, woods and
fields dotted with natural springs. More than 90 works by artists
from 27 countries are on display. Guided tours are available, and
the site includes a restaurant, shop and post
office.
Hours of Operation: The museum is open for visitors throughout the year
daily from 9am to sunset
Phone:(523) 77077 |
Vilnius
holidays - Top Events
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