About Vilnius

Vilnius

The capital of Lithuania was first mentioned in written sources of the 12th century. It becomes famous after the invitation letter written by Gediminas, the Grand Duke from 1316 to German merchants. And in 1323 Vilnius was named a city and was given Magdeburg Rights. The prosperity of Vilnius city is symbolised by a legend about a dream of the Grand Duke Gediminas, in which he saw a roaring iron wolf on one of the numerous Vilnius hills. The oldest prophet explained the dream to the ruler meaning that the town’s reputation would spread far and wide.

The Gediminas’ Tower

The symbol of Vilnius is visible from many spots in the Old Town and is portrayed in numerous works of art. It is one of the best places to see the magnificent panoramas of Vilnius. Climb Gediminas’ Hill and admire the sunset or go up even higher to the top of the Gediminas Tower for more spectacular views. The red roofs of Vilnius, the church towers, and the narrow streets of the Medieval Old Town are a stunning sight. The tower houses a historic exhibition displaying reconstruction models of the castles of Vilnius, an armament, and iconographic material of old Vilnius.

Monument to Grand Duke Gediminas

Lithuania was twice the size of its current territory during the reign of Grand Duke Gediminas. This ruler, famous for his diplomatic prowess, has left an extremely deep legacy on his country.

The bronze sculpture of Duke Gediminas is placed near a horse, facing the Cathedral Bell Tower. He holds a sword in his left hand and blesses the city with his right hand.

The monument to the Grand Duke Gediminas is one of Vilnius’ many talking sculptures. This is evident from the blue table attached to the sculpture’s pedestal inviting you to listen to the sculpture. Choose one of the two alternatives listed in the table on your smartphone: scan the QR code or type in the specified URL.

Vilnius University

The first university of this type in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania soon developed into an important scientific and cultural centre of Europe. Functioning for a long time as the only school of higher learning in Lithuania, it was a preserver of cultural and scientific traditions and has played a significant part in the cultural life not only of Lithuania but the neighbouring countries as well. During more than four centuries of its existence, Vilnius University has seen periods of growth and decline, revival, and closure. The University is a unique witness to the history of the Lithuanian state.