This was part of A weekend in the Baltics - Day 1 🇱🇹 🔗.
I made it just in time to join the Old Town Free Tour by Vilnius Free Walking Tours at 10:30 AM. Our guide was Ugnė. She started by sharing some history of Vilnius and Lithuania. She also explained how the Lithuanian language has many common roots with other languages, including Sanskrit; her name is very similar to the Sanskrit word agni, and both mean fire.
On our walk across town, we saw the Office of the President of the Republic of Lithuania and the Library Courtyard of Vilnius University, which features the sculpture of Kristijonas Donelaitis.
We stopped at Alumnato kiemelis, considered one of the most beautiful and impressive historic courtyards in the Vilnius Old Town. From there, we visited the Gaon Monument; the bust and memorial plaque honor the Vilnius Gaon, one of history’s most influential Jewish scholars. We also learned about the rich Jewish history of the city.
Next, we saw the sculpture of the pagan goddess Medeinė and walked past the Church of St. Casimir to the Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall. The Bastion offers stunning views of Vilnius and the Three Crosses Monument.
Our next stop took us across the Vilnia River to the Republic of Užupis, a self-declared independent district with its own flag and anthem. It is famous for its 41-point constitution, which is displayed on Paupio Street in multiple languages.
The Angel of Užupis, a bronze statue of an angel blowing a trumpet, stands in the main square. Known for its bohemian identity, Užupis is the artistic heart of Vilnius, filled with galleries, workshops, and cafes.
We crossed the Vilnia River back into the Old Town to see St. Anne’s Church and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. These two churches form one of the most famous and visually stunning architectural ensembles in the city.
We also visited the monument to Adam Mickiewicz, the world-renowned Romantic poet who lived and studied in Vilnius. Our tour concluded at Literatų Street, where the narrow walls have been transformed into an outdoor gallery dedicated to writers and poets connected to the city.
Ugnė gave us excellent tips for the rest of our day and several restaurant recommendations. It was a fantastic tour, and I would definitely recommend it if you ever find yourself in Vilnius.