Euro Travel Pages

Loving Lithuania

Lithuania is well known for being able to bring together elements of the old and new to form a different kind of attraction for its guests. The country is rich in a culture that is greatly influenced by various neighboring countries in Central Europe. While it has copied bits and pieces of tradition from other countries, it has managed to create an identity of its own by bringing a whole new perspective to these old practices. Lithuania is touted as an upcoming tourist destination for travelers who enjoy historic tours.

Located southeast of the Baltic Sea, Lithuania is bounded by Latvia, Belarus and Poland. Its capital city and center of culture and trade is in Vilnius. This historic city is also in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites and was added in 1994. It features some of the most valuable historic and cultural sites in the country and is also considered one of the largest old towns in Europe. Baroque architecture is quite common in most of its structures but one can also see other design genres including Gothic and Renaissance.

The history of Lithuania stretches back to the year 1009 when it was first mentioned in a medieval German manuscript. Before it gained its independence in 1918, it was once part of the Russian empire. After that, the country merged with Poland and was then acquired by the Soviet Union until its independence was restored in 1990. In a sense, one can actually say that Lithuania has gone through many periods of foreign occupation and temporary independence until the last absolute restoration of the country’s autonomy more than a decade ago.

Majority of Lithuanians belong to the Roman Catholic Church. In fact, since the fourteenth century, the Christian faith has been the dominant affiliation in the country. The Church played a vital role in some of the most important historical events in Lithuania. Priests have been known to even take part in protests against the Communist takeover. Suffice to say, the people’s religion has also done a whole lot in shaping the country’s culture and traditions.

The culture of Lithuania has been in existence for thousands of years. Throughout the centuries, different nations who have gained control over these lands have influenced the country’s practices thereby creating a culture that is quite unique. The introduction of Christianization has also brought in a few changes of its own. The best known tourist attractions in the country these days are usually composed of churches and other religious landmarks around the cities.

Many travel websites and books recommend visiting the country in the summer or spring to be able to enjoy most of the attractions that it has in store. The spring brings new blooms and an added beauty to already breathtaking natural scenery and the weather makes it ideal for laid-back strolls on the city or drives to the countryside.

Festivals are also held during these months in Lithuania so if you want to get a glimpse of the colorful pagan traditions that the country has, pay a visit during the months of July and August.

Hotels in Lithuania