Užupis is not just a small bohemian quarter, somewhat reminiscent of the Parisian Montmartre. It is also an independent state, a republic located in the very center of the capital of another republic, having its own constitution, the president and even the army. So, being in Vilnius it's worth to visit this unique state in the country.
A paragraph of history
The first mention of the quarter dates back to the 14th century, and it was from this area that Vilnius began to grow .In the Middle Ages, Užupis was inhabited by tanners and millers, because here flows the Vilniale River, which allowed to soak the skin and grind grain .Despite the fact that the urban poor lived in a large part of the quarter, Užupis enjoyed some autonomy because he had his own budget .The main item of the replenishment of the budget was the fare for bridges across the river .So we can say that Užupis always had a special position within Vilnius .
In the 19th century, representatives of the petty bourgeoisie, petty bourgeoisie, servicemen, and low-ranking military officers began to settle here, but poor urban residents still predominate.
A new round in the history of the quarter fell on the troubled time of the late twentieth century. In the 90's the district suddenly became unusually popular and very prestigious. Accordingly, real estate prices have risen in price, uncommon ruins and huts were bought up all over the place, and small art galleries were immediately converted to fashion galleries. Užupis has become a favorite place for avant-garde artists, poets, musicians and other representatives of bohemia. In a word, Užupis is such a Vilnius Montmartre.
Independence Day of the Republic
By the way, on the borders of the district there are signs informing you that you are entering the territory of the Užupis republic. True, the border control here operates only once a year - April 1, when the Independence Day of the Republic is celebrated. On this day, "frontier guards", dressed in funny costumes, check their passports, and on the main square of the district, angel festivities are held solemn festivities and even a parade of the army of Uzhupis.
What to see
The sights of the quarter include such architectural monuments as, for example, a fine example of classicism - the Gonestov Palace, built in the late eighteenth century, and after it was restored in the early nineteenth century. The church of St. Bartholomew, the Bernardine convent, which is now not functioning, is also interesting. And of course, the main symbol of Užupis is the sculpture of a trumpeting angel.
Naturally, in the quarter where a large number of representatives of free professions live, you will find in abundance various galleries, clubs, literary cafes, you can listen to music and visit performances that are often held outdoors.
Užupis is squeezed between the quarters of the Old City on the one hand, the mountain of Three Crosses on the other and the industrial zone of Soviet times with the third. Thus, Užupis is located in the very center of Vilnius, but it is somewhat isolated, which contributes to the special atmosphere of life taking place in this area.
| Multicolored lane, Užupis |
| Catholic church of St. Bartholomew, Užupis |
| Shop in Uzhupis |
| Painted house, Užupis |
| Užupis |