Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest surviving medieval old town in Northern Europe, a dense labyrinth of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture spread across the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers in Lithuania’s capital.

History

Founded in the early 14th century by Grand Duke Gediminas, who wrote famous letters inviting craftsmen and merchants from western Europe, Vilnius became one of the great cities of medieval Europe. It housed one of the most important Jewish centres on the continent — the Vilna Ghetto, site of tremendous suffering during World War II. The Old Town covers 360 hectares and contains nearly 1,500 buildings, including a 15th-century university that is one of the oldest in northern Europe. Vilnius served as European Capital of Culture in 2009.

What to See

Gothic Gediminas Tower survives from the Upper Castle and offers commanding views. The Church of St Anne is a red-brick Gothic gem that Napoleon reportedly wished to carry back to Paris on his palm. The Baroque ensemble of Vilnius University, the Cathedral Square with its freestanding bell tower, and the Užupis neighbourhood — a bohemian self-declared republic — each reward extended exploration. The site of the Great Synagogue is a pilgrimage point for Jewish heritage visitors.

Getting There

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania. International flights serve Vilnius Airport (10 km from centre). Eurolines and Flixbus connect Vilnius to Warsaw, Riga, and Tallinn. The old town is walkable from the central bus and train stations.

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