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For centuries Lithuania was known as a land of endless lush forests, interrupted only by rivers. As such the traditional architecture in Lithuania is wooden. In most smaller towns almost every building that is constructed before 20th century is built of wood. Wooden churches (both Catholic and Orthodox) are common in villages, there are even wooden mosques and synagogues. Some of the wooden buildings are very elaborate and with intricate details.

In the downtown of the main cities, however, the brick started to displace the wood as early as in the 14th century. Romanesque architecture was the first international style to reach Lithuania but few examples of it survive. Some of the most famous architectural gems date to Gothic period (such as the Saint Anne’s church in Vilnius) and subsequent Rennaisance. This period was followed by the Baroque that is the best represented in the church architecture of Vilnius. Only a few cities have brick pre-19th century districts however: Vilnius, and Kaunas are the best known examples.

Itinerary

Arrival to Vilnius. Private transfer to the hotel in Vilnius Old Town. Free evening.

Overnight at the hotel „Congress Avenue“ 4* or

similar.

The day to explore Vilnius old architecture.

Vilnius is known for its Old Town of beautiful architecture,

declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Its Jewish

influence until the 20th century has led to it being described

as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania” and Napoleon named it “the

Jerusalem of the North” as he was passing through in 1812.

Overnight at the hotel „Congress Avenue“ 4* or similar.

The day to explore Vilnius new architecture. The tour will be focused on contemporary Vilnius buildings.

Overnight at the hotel „Congress Avenue“ 4* or similar

The day for meeting local architects, the representatives of the local construction companies, visit design showrooms.

Overnight at the hotel „Congress Avenue“ 4* or similar.

Morning departure to Kaunas – the second biggest city in Lithuania. It is the elegantly ageing interwar capital, with its unforgettable east-west boulevard Laisvės Alėja and surrounding streets lined with austere modernist or Art Deco structures dating from that period. On the way back to Vilnius stop in Trakai – the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, a majestic insular castle of 15th century, will have a relaxing sail at Galve lake and learn about local ethnic minority – karaites.

Overnight at the hotel „Congress Avenue“ 4* or similar.

Private transfer to the airport. Departure.

Notes