Gediminas' Tower, Vilnius, Lithuania

Gediminas' Tower is the only remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius. The first fortifications were built of wood by Duke of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Gediminas. Later the first brick castle was completed in 1409 by Grand Duke Vytautas. Some remnants of the old castle have been restored, guided by archeological research.

It is possible to climb to the top of the hill on foot or by taking a funicular. The tower houses an exposition of archeologic findings from the hill and the surrounding areas. It is also an excellent vantage point, from where the panorama of Vilnius' Old Town can be admired.

Gediminas' Tower is an important state and historic symbol of the city of Vilnius and of Lithuania itself. It is depicted on the national currency, the litas, and is mentioned in numerous Lithuanian patriotic poems and folk songs. The Flag of Lithuania was re-hoisted atop the tower on October 7, 1988, during the independence movement that was finalized by the Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania on March 11, 1990. A reconstruction of the Royal Palace of Lithuania was completed in 2009, and is located near the base of the hill upon which Gediminas' Tower stands.

References:

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User Reviews

Namie Rye (12 months ago)
It's a very nice tower, overlooking the city. You come here for the view. It is nice inside the tower, but naturally as you can see, you're not going to spend a lot of time in the tower. You can stand on the top though, which is super cool. It's what you'd expect it to be.

Dominik Krupan (13 months ago)
Amazing. Symbol of the city with great history. Beautiful panoramas of city. Good vibes and atmosphere. You can go here by funicular or by walk.

david howells (15 months ago)
Great tower and once part of a very large fortified defence system that covered the entire beautiful old town of Vilnius. Stunning views from the tower and there is a half decent museum inside. €6 entry fees.

Jesse M (20 months ago)
What an amazing piece of history to have been able to visit. It's quite the walk heading up there so have your walking shoes on. Breathtaking views on the observation deck on top of the Castle. You have to check this place out if you ever visit Vilnius.

Chrysostomos Mangos (21 months ago)
A must-visit while in Vilnius. Best season to go is late spring. It is a moderately exerting hike up the hill, but the view is absolutely worth it!

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