The capital of Lithuania is one of the most beautiful cities of the Old Continent, where the heritage of the past and achievements of the present, science and culture all coexist in harmony.

Vilnius was first mentioned in written sources in 1323, and by the 16^th century it has turned into a beautiful medieval city, the heritage of which is still charming today.

The Old Town architecture is the feather in the cap of the city. The buildings of the largest Baroque Old Town in central and Eastern Europe (360 ha), which has managed to preserve the medieval network of streets and typical spaces, remind us of the beautiful old Italian towns where Baroque was born. Gracious slender towers supporting the sky are the works of the Lithuanian Baroque school. The Old Town of Vilnius, located in an amphitheatre of breathtaking nature, has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994.

Moreover, Old Vilnius is not only about Baroque. The most impressive landmark of the Old Town is the gracious Gothic masterpiece of St. Anne’s Church. The monumental Benardine Temple is located right next to it. The Grand Courtyard of the Vilnius university, the Gates of Dawn, and the resurgent Royal Palace represent the beautiful Renaissance heritage.

By the decision of the European Commission, the title and responsibility of European Capital of Culture for 2009 have been granted to Vilnius . Vilnius was determined by its history, culture, traditions and the landscape of the state and the city. Furthermore, 2009 is also the year when Lithuania will celebrate the millennium of its name.