About Vilnius, Lithuania
About Lithuania
Lithuania, nestled on the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and modernity. As the crossroads where Northern, Eastern, and Western European cultures converge, Lithuania embodies values of democracy, freedom, and hospitality. Its stunning landscapes, from lush forests to sandy beaches along the Curonian Spit, provide endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor adventures in every season.
With a rich history dating back over a millennium, Lithuania has overcome challenges, including Soviet occupation, to emerge as a vibrant and forward-thinking nation. Welcoming and collaborative, Lithuania embraces its role as a member of the EU, NATO, and other international organizations while preserving its cultural traditions and fostering a dynamic cultural life in its cities. Whether discovering ancient sites, experiencing vibrant festivals, or immersing oneself in the beauty of its natural landscapes, Lithuania offers an unforgettable experience for visitors eager to explore its diverse offerings.
We invite you to explore more about Lithuania in the following sites:
About Vilnius
The legend of Vilnius
Today Vilnius is 700 years old. Legend has it that the city started with a dream Grand Duke Gediminas had on a hunting trip. In his dream, Gediminas saw a huge iron wolf standing on a hill howling as if hundreds of wolves were trapped inside it. When the Grand Duke consulted the court magician Lizdeika, he was told that the wolf was a symbol of a great capital that would one day stand atop that hill. By 1323, Gediminas was already sending letters to European cities inviting merchants and craftspeople to visit the city.
Culture in Vilnius
The magical Old Town of Vilnius holds many secrets and a long history. The cobblestone streets lead you on a romantic walk through the UNESCO World Heritage site. Vilnius is home to many talented contemporary artists, which means you can attend a play or a film by a world-famous Lithuanian director, listen to the best opera singer in the world, or visit the exhibition of an acclaimed contemporary artist.
Vilnius districts
Vilnius encompasses three distinct districts near the Old Town, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and ambiance.
The “Republic of Uzupis” lies adjacent to the Old Town, captivating visitors with its eclectic atmosphere and whimsical charm. Once a marginalized neighborhood, Uzupis has transformed into one of the city’s most prestigious areas, boasting gourmet bakeries, art galleries, and vibrant streets. Known for its independent spirit, Uzupis operates under its own set of rules and even issues passports to tourists, symbolizing its distinct identity within Vilnius.
Across the River Neris, Zverynas invites travelers to explore its tranquil surroundings and picturesque landscapes. This residential neighborhood, once a hunting ground for nobles, now features a harmonious blend of old cottages adorned with wooden carvings and modern amenities. Zverynas stands out for its orderly architectural arrangement and diverse religious landmarks, including the Our Lady of the Sign Eastern Orthodox Church and the moss-covered Kenesa synagogue.
Antakalnis, one of Vilnius’s oldest neighborhoods, exudes historical grandeur with its noble residences and architectural treasures. Visitors can admire landmarks such as the Sapieha Palace and the Baroque gem, Sts. Apostles Peter and Paul Church. Additionally, Antakalnis boasts modern attractions like the Vilnius Tech Park, a hub for startups and innovation. The Antakalnis Cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of Vilnius’s rich history, housing the resting places of prominent figures from various backgrounds and beliefs, reflecting the city’s diverse heritage.
Contemporary Vilnius
In contemporary Vilnius, traditional artisans have given way to a thriving hub of high-tech innovation. The city hosts international business offices and cutting-edge laser and medical equipment factories. Every autumn, Vilnius experiences a renewal as universities welcome a diverse array of students, drawn to fields like medicine, law, architecture, journalism, and technology. With Lithuania boasting the world’s fastest internet, the IT sector flourishes, attracting global companies to Vilnius, home to the largest tech startup hub in the Baltic States. For those interested in modern architecture, must-visit sites include the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center and the environmentally friendly “Quadrum” office complex. Vilnius pulsates with trends, where designer fashion competes with the city’s booming high-tech industry, inviting visitors to judge for themselves as they explore its vibrant streets.
Green Vilnius
Vilnius is surrounded by lush green forests, hills and valleys, and has rivers winding right through the middle of the City. Vilnius itself is full of beautiful parks and woods. There are two state-protected regional parks within the city limits, Pavilniai and Verkiai. Additionally, there are several landscape, geomorphological and lake parks, botanical gardens, natural monuments – mounds and outcrops. Right in the center of the city and in nearby areas there are the cozy and vibrant Vingio and Kalnu parks, which host many cultural events. Bernardine Park and Vilnius University Botanical Gardens are more serene and offer the perfect setting to stretch your legs and feast on a midday lunch.
Outside Vilnius
There’s plenty to see in Vilnius, but if you have more time on your hands, a day-trip will open up new horizons. There are various daytrip options depending on your interests, but one common feature is that they’re all relatively close by and easily accessible. We will be offering a few excursions for the conference participants, please follow the information on this website.
Just a 30-minute trip from Vilnius, the Town of Trakai is home to a stunning fairytale view of a castle in the middle of a lake. The Kernavė Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the valley of the Neris River, will transport you to prehistoric and medieval ages.
You can also visit the geographical centre of Europe, which is near Vilnius, and then check out Europos Park, an exquisite open-air contemporary art museum. If you are ready for a bigger road-trip, we recommend taking a day-trip to Kaunas, the Hill of Crosses, or even going to the Baltic Sea.
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