Mongol Saga Episode XI – Looking back on Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania. Photos by Will Parson

Team Great Job has some car trouble outside of Vilnius

When our car broke down on the outskirts of Vilnius and the Nissan mechanic fixed our car for free, we knew we were going to like this city. I’m proud to say my great-grandfather was from Vilnius, and that I’m a quarter Lithuanian.

From my journal on July 24:

The hostel was gloriously comfortable. Free internet, laundry (15 Litas a load) and a kitchen where Bones cooked pasta for us. Settling into our six-person room replete with bunk beds, we hit the streets and were soon past the 18th century Arch-Cathedral Basilica of Vilnius and walking up a steep cobblestone path to the remnants of Upper Castle, Gediminas Tower, and overlooking two halves of the city. It was beautiful and we agreed that it would be worth it to return to Vilnius someday.

Cathedral Square

Vilnius is Europe's 2009 Culture Capital

Actually, we were back less than a week and a half later, because the Russians wouldn’t let us into their country.  Here are more photos of Vilnius the second time around.

The Republic of Užupis is a neighborhood in Vilnius, Lithuania dominated by artists and their work.

Youth in Vilnius

A little urban decay.

Team Great Job relaxes at a bar in Uzupis