Gediminas Tower

Gediminas Tower is the only remaining functional part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius, Lithuania.

The first fortifications were built of wood by the Duke of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania Gediminas (1316-1341). First the castle was built of brick in 1409 by Duke Vytautas the Great, (1392-1430). There are some fragments of the old castle, which are now restored according to numerous archeological researches on the Gediminas Hill.

It is possible to get onto the top of the Gediminas Hill by foot or by a funicular. The tower houses an exposition of archeologic findings from the hill and surrounding areas. There is a good observation point at the top of the tower, from where the panorama of Vilnius Old Town can be admired.

Gediminas Tower is an important state and historic symbol of Vilnius and Lithuania: it is depicted on national currency litas and 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. [ [http://www3.lrs.lt/pls/inter/w5_show?p_r=4056&p_k=2&p_rp=N&p_dr=N&p_d=49324 History of the Lithuanian Flag] ] A reconstruction of Royal Palace in Vilnius is currently taking place at the bottom of the Gediminas Hill near Vilnius Cathedral.

References

ee also

* Vilnius Castle
* Three Crosses
* Pilies Street
* Cathedral Square
* Castles in Lithuania