• Europe 2022 - 2023
    The Angel of Uzupis
    A few traditional houses within the republicTraditional Lithuanian homeAnother home in the republic1A street in Uzupis. The banner shows the "Republic" flag. A hand with a blue background.Cafe / restaurant lounge culture is prevalent throughout Vilnius1Got to love the creativity with the potted plants/pants ?? Lol

    The Independent Republic of Užupis

    July 27, 2022 in Lithuania ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    Today we visited the Independent Republic of Užupis. In Lithuanian, Užupis means, "Beyond the river" as it is part of "old town" but across the Vilnia River from the rest of that quarter of the Lithuanian capital.

    Once the Jewish quarter of Vilnius many of the buildings in this suburb were abandoned after Nazi occupation during WWII. After Lithuania regained it's independence, many started to re-inhabit this area. Most notably students from the Vilnius Academy of Arts. They started to create a number of galleries, open-air sculptures and installations.

    In 1997, the residents of the area declared the suburb, The Independent Republic of Užupis. Complete with it's own Flag, Constitution and President. They celebrate their independence on April 1st. It's status as an independent republic is not formally recognized by any Government anywhere.

    But, it was still a fun place to visit, and have a beer.    Read more