About Vilnius, Lithuania
At 701 years old, Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, seamlessly combines art, culture, history, and modern innovation.
Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invites visitors to explore its diverse architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical buildings.
Highlights include Gediminas Castle, Vilnius Cathedral, and Vilnius University, one of Central and Eastern Europe’s oldest.
Vilnius, boasts being one of Europe's greenest capitals, with 61% of the city covered in greenery (Hugsi, 2023). Beyond nature and history, it thrives with classical and contemporary arts, cultural events, and unique street art.
The city is also an innovation hub, known for its dynamic startup ecosystem and growing industries in technology and finance. Recognized as the number one dynamically developing city in the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region, Vilnius offers a unique blend of heritage, modernity, and sustainability, attracting visitors worldwide.
A few historical facts...
- Lithuania was the last country in Europe to be converted to Christianity. Before Christianity, the country’s religion was ‘Romuva’.
- By the end of the fourteenth century, Lithuania was the largest country in Europe. Today, United States territory is about 151 times bigger than Lithuania.
- Lithuania had only one king during the royal times, King Mindaugas.
- Lithuania was the first Soviet republic to declare independence from the USSR.
Outside of Vilnius
Beyond Vilnius, Lithuania offers a wealth of natural beauty and history. Trakai, a short drive from the capital, boasts a picturesque island castle, offering a glimpse into the medieval past. The Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases stunning sand dunes and pine forests along the Baltic Sea. Visitors can also explore the spiritual Hill of Crosses or immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Aukštaitija National Park. From folklore-rich villages like Rumšiškės to its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, Lithuania captivates with its rich tapestry of experiences.
Useful Info
Here are some useful links from our conference partner, Go Vilnius, with more info about Vilnius, showcasing what you can do, eat, and see:
Around the time of the conference, there will be some interesting events you might want to join!
- 8 September Vilnius Marathon
- 13-15 September The Nation Fair
- 12-14 September LOFTAS fest
