Vilniuje

Vilniuje is the capital and largest city of Lithuania, located in the southeastern part of the country along the Neris River. It serves as the political, cultural, and economic center, hosting the national government, universities, and numerous cultural institutions.

The city’s history stretches back to the 14th century, when Grand Duke Gediminas established Vilnius as the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The historic center, especially the Old Town, showcases a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

Prominent landmarks include Vilnius Cathedral and its square, Gediminas' Tower, the Gates of Dawn, and St. Anne's Church. The Užupis district is a noted bohemian neighborhood, sometimes referred to as a self-declared republic.

Vilnius is an educational hub; Vilnius University, founded in 1579, is one of the oldest universities in the region. The city also hosts campuses of several other higher education institutions and a growing information technology sector.

The economy emphasizes services, finance, and technology, with Vilnius Airport providing international connections. Public transport consists of buses and trolleybuses, complemented by cycling routes and pedestrian areas.

The population is predominantly Lithuanian, with Polish, Russian, and Belarusian communities represented, and a historic Jewish heritage connected to the city’s historic name Vilna. The city hosts diverse cultural events and museums, contributing to its role as Lithuania’s cultural capital.