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The Lithuanian capital of Vilnius has managed to keep an extraordinary combination of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and classical architecture.
The UNESCO World Heritage List includes more than a thousand properties with outstanding universal value. They are all part of the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
Official facts
- Full name of site: Vilnius Historic Centre
- Country: Lithuania
- Date of Inscription: 1994
- Category: Cultural site
UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre’s short description of site no. 541:
“Political centre of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania from the 13th to the end of the 18th century, Vilnius has had a profound influence on the cultural and architectural development of much of eastern Europe. Despite invasions and partial destruction, it has preserved an impressive complex of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and classical buildings as well as its medieval layout and natural setting.”
My visit
I visited Vilnius shortly before Christmas in 2013 and had some pleasant days. The Old Town is very nice and easy-going located between two rivers. There are some fine churches, squares, an interesting national museum and friendly people. The most memorable visit was to the Peter and Paul church: I have hardly seen such a lovely church interior anywhere.
