Having heard great things about Lithuania from various people in Riga, we headed off to the capital - Vilnius.

As the bus arrived in the city, we were greeted by an iron curtain of soviet tower blocks, which bore down upon us, as if trying to block out the sun. This was my first impression. But, I'll say now, after a day of exploring the old town, the expression "first impressions count" is defiantly not applicable here!!

The old town is a wash of color with stunning architecture, some of which is old, dating back to Gothic and baroque style, with other parts being brand new - a factor which was courtesy of bombing in WWII which demolished the old buildings. However, rather than these bomb sites being re-built in a modern style, the old buildings have been re-constructed so that the old town has "old" architecture which is brand new!!

Aside from being amazed by the buildings, there are loads of churches, both Lutheran, Catholic and Orthodox which are amazing to look in, especially as (like the buildings around them) many of thee have been re-built recently.

All in all, Vilnius is a fascinating city which perfectly combines the old with the new, giving it a typically "Baltic State" feel which we will no doubt miss as we travel into central Europe, leaving for Warsaw tomorrow!!

Much love to all

Christopher

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