Скачать или смотреть [4K] 10 Fun & Surprising Facts About Vilnius, Lithuania 🇱🇹 | Hidden Gems & History!

Here are some fun and fascinating facts about Vilnius, Lithuania:

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🌍 1. It’s One of Europe’s Greenest Capitals

Vilnius is known for being very green—nearly 46% of the city is covered by green spaces. You’ll find forests, parks, and gardens almost everywhere. It’s great for outdoor lovers.

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🏰 2. It Has One of the Largest Old Towns in Eastern Europe

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. Expect cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and hidden courtyards.

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🇱🇹 3. Užupis: The City’s Own Bohemian Republic

Užupis is a quirky neighborhood that declared itself an independent republic in 1997. It has its own flag, president, and constitution, which includes rights like “Everyone has the right to be happy” and “Everyone has the right to be idle.”

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🏛️ 4. It Was Once a Capital of a Massive Empire

Vilnius was the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which in the 15th century was the largest country in Europe, stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea.

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🛤️ 5. A Secret KGB Prison Lies Beneath the City

The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, located in the former KGB headquarters, includes a preserved Soviet prison. It’s eerie but historically important and gives insight into Lithuania’s resistance movements.

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📚 6. Home to One of Europe’s Oldest Universities

Vilnius University, established in 1579, is among the oldest in Central and Eastern Europe. The campus is beautiful and features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical architecture.

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🕍 7. Once Called the “Jerusalem of the North”

Before WWII, Vilnius had a large and vibrant Jewish community, with over 100 synagogues and a thriving cultural life. It was a major center of Jewish learning.

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🗺️ 8. The Geographical Center of Europe?

According to a 1989 French National Geographic Institute calculation, the geographic center of Europe is just 26 kilometers north of Vilnius.

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🎨 9. Street Art is a Big Deal

Vilnius is famous for creative and political street art, including a well-known mural of Trump and Putin kissing (which has since been replaced). Art is part of the city’s daily vibe.

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🕊️ 10. It Was the First Capital to Declare Independence from the USSR

On March 11, 1990, Lithuania (with Vilnius as its capital) became the first Soviet republic to declare independence, leading the way for others.

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