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Once Upon a Time...
...in 1997, a group of artists were having beer in this red building, the bar, when they came up with the idea to declare this area the Independent Republic of Užupis.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Since then the smallest district in Vilnius has been promoting freedom of thought, kindling curiosity, and inviting to keep an open mind.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
What’s an independent republic without a proper border crossing? To get to the main entrance to the district, head to the Bridge of Užupis.
On April 1, when Užupis celebrates its independence, this is where you can get your passport stamped upon entry.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
The border is guarded by the famous Mermaid of Užupis or Užupis’ Maiden. She took a dive once during the flood of 2004, but she’s back safe in the niche in the quay.
Beware, legend has it that if you look at her long enough she might seduce you to stay in Užupis forever.
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The transformation of Užupis into an artistic community began in the late 20th century as the neighborhood experienced a cultural renaissance.
Street Art in Užupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Artists, writers, and intellectuals began to settle in the area adding to the bohemian atmosphere.
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The Constitution
Užupis Constitution was written in just three hours this tongue-in-cheek manifesto reflects the neighborhood's commitment to celebrating individuality and artistic freedom.
The Constitution of UžupisVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
‘Everyone has the right to love' 🩷
Says the Constitution of the Independent Republic of Užupis, translated into more than 26 languages.
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Tibet Square: A Symbol of Freedom
One of the most important values of Užupis is independence. That’s why you’ll find Tibet Square in the independent Republic of Užupis. Follow the path of Dalai Lama XIV who unveiled the Mandala mosaic in the square in 2013 during his visit to Vilnius.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Whenever you visit Užupis, you’ll be greeted by the Angel of Užupis that stands on an 8.5 m pedestal blowing his horn and announcing the world of the revival and the artistic freedom of Užupis district.
Urban legend has it that placing a sculpture of an angel here was a suggestion made by the Dalai Lama on one of his visits.
Sculpture "Egg"Vilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
The Angel of Užupis actually hatched from an egg!
When the sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas couldn’t finish the sculpture on time, an egg was placed in place of the sculpture.
Today, the famous egg has found a new home in Pylimas square.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
The landscape of the districts allows the visitors to enjoy the relaxing waters of Vilnelė river as well as the great panoramas of the Vilnius Old Town while standing on one of the highest hills in Vilnius.
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Užupis has been called the Montmartre of Vilnius for a reason. It's where you can feel the bohemian spirit around every corner. So while walking to the art galleries keep an eye on art works right in the streets of Užupis.
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So while walking to the art galleries keep an eye on art works right in the streets of Užupis.
Jonas Mekas Draught AlleyVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Discover a piece of avant-garde art right in the heart of the district. Jonas Mekas Visual Arts Center houses works by Jonas Mekas and Jurgis George Mačiūnas.
They were forefathers of contemporary art movement Fluxus, as well as temporary exhibitions by other contemporary artists who experiment with mixed media.
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Resting place for artists
Even though visiting a cemetery might not be at the top of your sightseeing list, the Bernardine Cemetery is worth a visit. Established in 1810, the cemetery serves as a resting place for many famous people, such as painters Kanuty Rusiecki and Vytautas Kairiūkštis.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Art around every corner
Užupis is dotted with art galleries, studios, and open-air installations. You can find colorful murals, whimsical sculptures, and various forms of artistic surprises around every corner. It attracts a colorful crowd as a place where creativity and individuality are celebrated.
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
The place that was once forgotten by society has experienced a cultural renaissance and is now undergoing a gentrification process, causing rapid changes.
Over the years, Užupis has become the second-most expensive area to live in, after Vilnius Old Town. So, be quick to explore the streets of Užupis and don't forget to follow the rule - smile!
Uzupis DistrictVilnius, Unexpectedly Amazing
Many people wonder, "Is it true? Is it really an independent republic?" The truth is that this area isn't separated from the rest of the city; it isn't like Freetown Christiania in Denmark.
People in this area pay bills and rent, and smoking weed or drinking alcohol on the streets is prohibited. However, both Užupis and Christiania share a common thread: they embody the same spirit of freedom and independence.
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