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Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, also its largest city (population 600,000) and one of its oldest, was founded in the 14th century. Vilnius has developed into Lithuania's political, economic and cultural center. It stretches along both banks of the fast-flowing Neris River, set among hills of pine forests. "Old Town," Vlinius's historical center, is one of the largest historical centers in Eastern Europe, a place of much valuable cultural heritage. All 1,500 buildings in Old Town were built in different centuries, and therefore represent a mixture of European architectural styles.
Although Vilnius is often called a Baroque city, you will also find some buildings of Gothic, Renaissance and other styles. The main sights of the city are Gediminas Castle and the Cathedral Square, both symbols of the capital and gateways to its historic center. Because of its uniqueness, the Old Town of Vilnius was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994.
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