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Uzupio in Vilnius, Lithuania
by Andy / FarAndFurther-team
Uzupio, a self-proclaimed, unofficial republic inhabited by artists and dreaming bohemians is certainly Vilnius' strangest district. It was founded in 1997 on the east banks of the Vilnia River and occupies an area of only 0.60 km2 (148 acres).
There is a very relaxed vibe in the republic and the inhabitants are friendly, if somewhat indifferent towards visitors. Make sure to bring your camera as the place offers ample photographic opportunities. Some of the murals are truly awesome.
Everything in Uzupio seems to be a bit tongue-in-cheek. Consider the fact that its independence day falls on April 1st (April Fools' Day) or that the "constitution" states among other vitally important things:
Everyone has the right to be alone and everyone has the right to love
Everyone has the right to have a cat and to love his/her cat
The cat has no responsibilities to its owner
Entering Uzupio from the Old Town (from the west).
A local custom: just married couples fasten a lock on this handrail of the
bridge connecting Uzupio and the Old Town.
Each lock has an engraving of the couple's names and wedding date.
Wonder what they do with the key?
Every republic needs rules. We have no idea what the Mona Lisa stands for?
If you are entering Uzupio from the east along small lanes
it might seem like a bit of a rough neighborhood or even
a shanty town.
But soon it starts to look much better.
A water wheel in the middle of a stream...
... just for decorative purposes.
There are lots of skillfully painted murals in the "republic".
A detail from the left lower corner.
Mural in classic painting style.
Lots in details on this wall.
The Uzupio Cafe (Uzupio Kavine) is a terrific place to have some
refreshments and enjoy the atmosphere.
There is a splendid view of the Old Town at sunset from Tores Restaurant's terrace just a short walk
up the hill.
Note the wine glass in this bronze statue's hand, complete with some red wine!
You can find all our photos and stories on European countries at
European countries photo series and travel stories
