About this experience
When talking about Vilnius's past, it is often difficult to distinguish between myth and reality. The city carefully preserves the history of coexistence of different cultures - Lithuanian, Polish, Jewish, Belarusian. I will reveal to you the legends and scary tales of Vilnius. You will learn how the legend of the city's founding is connected with a steel wolf, where the rumor of a ghost from the castle originated, and who separated Vilnius's Romeo and Juliet. The city's history will be revealed to you from an unusual perspective - from the point of view of great rulers, saints, beautiful women, and common laborers of Vilnius.
What to Expect
Vilnius - from Grand Duke Gediminas to Queen Bona Sforza
During the walk, you will hear stories of old Vilnius that are still told among the locals. You will learn the legend of the city's founding: I will explain how it is connected with a huge steel wolf seen in a dream by the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas, and why the name of the future capital of Lithuania came from the Vilnia River. We will discuss the famous Vilnius ghost, Queen Bona Sforza, and local Romeo and Juliet - all amidst the cobblestone old streets and breathtaking city panoramas from the hills.
The city through the eyes of its remarkable residents
You will get acquainted with Vilnius through stories of its great rulers and common laborers. Learn about the angelic symbolism in Vilnius and its connection with the Russians who lived in Lithuania, understand why the women of the last ruler from the Gediminid dynasty left a mark but no heir, and grasp how the Lithuanian noble Kasimir became the heavenly protector of Lithuania and Poland. I will also tell you what the city's treasury consisted of, how they fought crime, and why the expression 'to kiss the lady on Town Hall Square' is related to punishments.
Organizational Details
The tour is entirely on foot, with no additional expenses planned.
