Lithuania attracts tourists by several factors. Firstly, the rest on the Baltic Sea is several times cheaper than in Russia. Secondly, only there you can experience the unique traditions of amber SPA care. And yet, you need to go to Lithuania not only to have fun and rest. The country is filled with a rich cultural and architectural heritage worth exploring.
Mountain of crosses
The apogee of the Catholic faith, located near the city of Siauliai, attracts thousands of pilgrims. The temple, located on two hills in the open air, has collected more than fifty thousand crosses on its territory. Historians have not come to a consensus about the origin of the holy place. There are two popular versions. Some argue that this is a gathering place for pagans, others stand up for a memorial to the lost Lithuanians, after the uprising in 1803. On one hill there is a statue of the Mother of God. On the second, the Pope, blessing all of Europe, installed a cross with his own image. Later, a statue of the crucified Christ was erected on the same hill. The huge area of the Mountain is constantly being filled with new and new crosses. Pilgrims carry them from all over the world. There is a belief that everyone who brings the cross to a holy place will be lucky. You can get to the religious site by public transport. The tourist infrastructure is conveniently located nearby, so you can visit the Hill of Crosses with complete comfort.
Užupis quarter
A kind of autonomous state within the country. It was from this quarter that the construction of Vilnius began. At first, the area was predominantly inhabited by millers, tanners and the poor. However, while collecting tolls across the bridge, as early as the 14th century, the quarter had its own budget. In the 90s of the last century, by the creative intelligentsia, Uzupis was declared an independent republic with its own flag, anthem and even a small army. The bohemia of Vilnius lives here, many galleries and studios are open.
Gate of Ausros
One of the most important sights of Vilnius. The only one of the 10 gates that remain from the Great Vilnuss Wall. The building is decorated with symbols of state power, artistic painting and carvings. Earlier, the monks opened a chapel under the roof. It contains the most important Catholic relic - the icon of the Mother of God, which is recognized as miraculous and is included in the lists of St. Peter in Rome.
Museum of Genocide Victims
A one-of-a-kind museum throughout the post-Soviet space. It is located in the former KGB building. The external walls are engraved with the names of partisans who fought for the freedom of Lithuania from the power of the USSR. In the museum, you can look at the cells for prisoners, which have practically not changed their original appearance. On the upper floors there are exhibits confirming the historical events that took place in Lithuania after the Second World War. Although the presence of such a museum may not seem very friendly to a Russian tourist, it can be very interesting to look at this episode of history from a different angle.
In addition to the listed places, it is worth paying attention to the Church of the Holy Spirit, the State Jewish Museum, Vilnius TV Tower, Trakai and the National Museum.
