Conference programme
ABSTRACTS
Cultural programme on Saturday 23 September: Excursion to Kernavė and Trakai.
Price: 50 EUR/person
Departure time: 9.30 a.m.
Departure point: Vilnius University (meeting point: at the University Library).
Tour guide: licensed English-speaking tour guide on the bus and on site.
Meals: lunch included in Trakai
You will start your excursion with a visit to Kernavė. The small town is located about 40 km north-west of the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on the banks of the Neris River and is now home to about 300 inhabitants. Despite its small size, Kernavė enjoys rich history and occupies a very important place in Lithuania’s past. In the Middle Ages, it was an important centre in early Lithuania and even the first capital of the country, where most likely the first Lithuanian king Mindaugas (around 1200-1263) resided. Even today, five fortified mounds of former castles bear witness to the former importance of the place. Since 2004, Kernavė has been one of the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Republic of Lithuania, along with the Old Town of Vilnius, the Curonian Spit and the Struve Geodetic Arc.
After sightseeing in Kernavė, you will drive to Trakai (approx. 45 km). You will begin your discovery of Trakai by stopping at an authentic restaurant run by Karaims, a Jewish Turkish people originally from the Crimea who have lived in Lithuania for 600 years. After one of his campaigns, Grand Duke Vytautas (c. 1350-1430) brought Karaims to his residential town and entrusted them with the protection of his residence. Over the years, however, Karaims also proved to be excellent cooks. After lunch you will visit the late medieval island castle of Trakai. Built by Grand Dukes Kęstutis (c. 1300-1382) and Vytautas (c. 1350-1430) on an island of the Lake Galvė from the red bricks, the castle ensemble is one of the most famous sights in Lithuania. The castle currently is home to the History Museum.
Detailed plan of the excursion:
9:30-10:30: Drive to Kernavė.
10:30-12:00: Sightseeing in Kernavė.
12:00-13:00: Drive to Trakai
13:00-14:00: Lunch
14:00-16:00: Sightseeing in Trakai
16:00-17:00: Drive to Vilnius