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Cathedral Square

TIME : 2016/2/18 22:35:12

At the base of Gediminas Hill sprawls Cathedral Square (Katedros aikštė), dominated by Vilnius Cathedral and its 57m-tall belfry , a Vilnius landmark. The square buzzes with local life, especially during Sunday morning Mass. Amuse yourself by hunting for the secret stebuklas (miracle) tile; if found, it can grant you a wish if you stand on it and turn around clockwise. It marks the spot where the 650km Tallinn–Vilnius human chain, protesting against Soviet rule, ended in 1989.

The first wooden cathedral, built here in 1387–88, was in Gothic style but has been rebuilt many times since then. The most important restoration was completed from 1783 to 1801, when the outside was redone in today's classical style. The interior retains more of its original aspect. Its showpiece is the baroque St Casimir's Chapel , with white stucco sculptures and frescos depicting the life of St Casimir (Lithuania's patron saint), whose silver coffin lies within.