Užupis
An artists’ quarter across the Vilnia River that “declared independence” on April Fools’ Day in 1997. It has its own president, flag and a humorous constitution displayed on the walls, translated into dozens of languages.
Užupis (meaning “across the river”) lies on the east side of the Old Town, separated from it by the Vilnia River, and covers less than 1 square kilometer. During the Soviet era it was a rundown fringe area. In the 1990s, many artists and bohemian young people moved in. On April 1, 1997, residents half-jokingly declared the founding of the Republic of Užupis, complete with a president, anthem, flag, army (about a dozen people) and holidays. The most famous item is the Constitution of the Republic of Užupis, hung on the wall of Paupio Street. It has 41 articles, such as “Everyone has the right to live by the Vilnia River, and the river has the right to flow past everyone,” “Everyone has the right to be lazy,” “Dogs have the right to be dogs,” and “A cat has no obligation to love its owner, but must help it when needed.” It has been translated into dozens of languages, including Chinese, and displayed on metal plaques. The bridge at the entrance is covered in love locks, and a “border” sign stands at the bridgehead. The central square features a bronze angel statue playing a trumpet, the district’s landmark. The neighborhood has galleries, studios, cafés and graffiti, and a mermaid sculpture stands by the river. On April 1, the Independence Day, visitors can get an entry stamp in their passport at the bridgehead. On other days, some cafés issue commemorative stamps.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Bernardine Garden
- St. Anne's Church
- Hill of Three Crosses
- Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit
- Pilies Street & Literatų Street
- Gediminas' Tower
- Church of St. Casimir
- Church of St. Theresa