This southern-most Baltic capital of Lithuania with charming cobblestone streets, numerous churches and cathedrals, and impressive Baroque architecture is also a city with some unique elements. First, there’s the Frank Zappa Memorial (although there’s no connection between him and the city). Then there are the various wine bars, each with a character of their own. And lastly, and most notedly, there’s Uzupis. This “breakaway state” in the center of Vilnius was created in 1998 (on April 1, of course) by the many artists in the city. It has it’s own unofficial president, flag, and constitution (read it in photos). It gives an indication of the individual, freedom-seeking, whimsical, offbeat mindset of Lithuanians.
Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/z8jzzipicszm1h4/xuGJKk_FzQ
Loved the Constitution!
Just an FYI: If you happen to see any tourists on a “sedgway”, those silly two-wheeler stand-up motorized thingies, (thought not exactly the season of warm weather to sue them) my friend Fatima’s husband, Tadek, who lives in Bethesda, imports sedgeways to Vilnius and has a business there. He travels to Vilnius regularly. I guess in time more and more tourists may visit.
I’m wondering if this particular quote “individual, freedom-seeking, whimsical, offbeat mindset of Lithuanians,” made you think of our 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Goble? Do you remember that she was an immigrant from Lithuania? I have visited your blog site a few times, Vicki, and am fascinated by all the various cultures about which you write! How exciting to leave Centerville, Indiana behind and travel the world! My best to you in your travels!
Thank you, Kathy! I had forgotten that Mrs. Goble was from Lithuania. (I’m not sure I knew that.)