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UNESCO heritage Lithuania

2022 12 21


Lithuania is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and it's no surprise that several of its landmarks have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Recently, two more sites were added to the list, making a total of six cultural and natural landmarks that have received this prestigious designation.

 

First on the list is the Struvé Geodetic Arc. This is a chain of survey triangulation stations stretching from Hammerfest in Norway to the Black Sea, through ten countries. It was created in the 18th and 19th centuries to establish the exact size and shape of the earth, and the Lithuanian part of the arc includes five stations. The Struvé Arc is a testimony to the scientific and technological achievements of the Age of Enlightenment and is a significant contribution to the understanding of earth's shape and size.

 

The second site is the Curonian Spit. This is a 98km long, thin, curved sand-dune spit that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea coast. It's a unique natural and cultural landscape, shaped by wind and sea and home to a rich biodiversity. The Spit is also known for its traditional fishing villages and the wooden architecture of the 19th century. The Spit is a unique example of how human culture and nature can coexist in harmony.

 

The other four sites that were previously designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites are the Kernavė Archaeological Site, the Vilnius Historic Centre, the Struvé Geodetic Arc, and the Hill of Crosses.

 

The Kernavė Archaeological Site is an ancient capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, it's a complex of six hillforts and settlements, dating from the 10th to the 14th century. This site is a testimony to the development of the Eastern Baltic region's cultures and political systems and is an excellent example of a medieval fortified settlement.

 

The Vilnius Historic Centre is a well-preserved ensemble of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. It's a unique blend of different styles and cultures, shaped by the city's history as a crossroads of trade and political power.

 

The Hill of Crosses is a unique sacred place where thousands of crosses have been placed for over 200 years. It's a testimony to the Lithuanian people's devotion to their Catholic faith and their resistance to foreign oppression.

 

The Struvé Geodetic Arc is a chain of survey triangulation stations stretching through ten countries. It was created in the 18th and 19th centuries to establish the exact size and shape of the earth, and the Lithuanian part of the arc includes five stations.

 

These six sites are just a small sample of the many cultural and natural treasures that Lithuania has to offer. They are a testimony to the country's rich history and cultural heritage, and they are a must-see for anyone visiting the country. So, pack your bags and come explore the beauty of Lithuania!


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