The Independent Republic of Užupis

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