History

100 years of Lithuanian Statehood

Tracing the footsteps of a century, through the foundations of an independent state - from the printed word to the most important documents ever written down

This route is for those who have heard many times about great personalities and important places in Kaunas, Suvalkija, Žemaitija, but want to find traces of the centenary in the capital of Lithuania, in the Old Town of Vilnius itself.

Along this route, you will discover where the foundations of an independent state were laid in the early 20th century, where the printed Lithuanian word originated, and the only church where mass was celebrated in Lithuanian. Finally, it will become clear why the Act of Independence was signed on Pilies Street and why the new monument to Jonas Basanavičius was erected on Aušros Vartų Street.

Start location

THE GREAT SEIMAS OF VILNIUS

Lithuanian National Philharmonic, Aušros Vartų g., 5

Duration

1.30 h Without going inside 3 h 45 min. With going inside

Distance

5,00 km

Means of travel

On foot

Terrain

Easy

Pet friendly

Additional information

Can be difficult for disabled people, parents with children in wheelchairs (narrow pavements in the Old Town).
Pets are allowed, except for indoor attractions.

Route compiled by Go Vilnius; photos by Go Vilnius

Route map

1. The Great Seimas of Vilnius

The building of the current Philharmonic dates back to the beginning of 20th century, when the…

2. The First Lithuanian Mass

The secret cultural society of Lithuanian intellectuals – the Twelve Vilnius Apostles – was created…

3. The Lithuanian Conference and the first Lithuanian gymnasium

In 1915, public figures working to unite Lithuanians since the Great Seimas of Vilnius established…

4. The Lithuanian Coat Army

This museum houses a collection of scenography work by artist Mstislavas Dobužinskis, which is now…

5. Lietuvos Aidas Printing House

To spread the news about the Act of Independence of Lithuania to all Lithuanians, Petras Klimas…

6. Origins of the National Flag Day

In December 1918 the Red Army entered Lithuania. It took control of Vilnius in early January 1919…

7. Signing The Act Of Independence Of Lithuania

In the early 20th century, this building belonged to Kazimieras Štralis. A confectioner’s…

8. The Lithuanian Bookstore

Jurgis Šlapelis become part of the Lithuanian movement early, while still studying at Mintauja’s…

9. Origins of Lithuanian art and music

Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis is rightfully thought to be Lithuania’s most significant artist…