Užupis
Vilniaus apskritis
Užupis is a distinctive neighborhood in Vilnius, Lithuania, located east of the Old Town on the right bank of the Vilnia River. Historically one of the oldest suburbs of Vilnius, Užupis developed outside the city's defensive walls from the 15th century onward. It was known for its artisan community and has maintained a unique character through centuries. The area is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, artistic spirit, and the self-declared Republic of Užupis, which has its own constitution, president, and symbols. Architecturally, Užupis preserves a mix of authentic wooden and brick houses alongside newer buildings. Notable landmarks include the Užupis Angel statue, a symbol of the neighborhood, and several historic bridges connecting Užupis with the Old Town. Its streets such as Malūnų, Paupio, and Užupio are central to its identity, featuring cultural venues, galleries, and cafes. Užupis is also known for its historical churches, such as the St. Bartholomew Church, and former monastic sites like the Bernardine Tertiary Monastery. Today, Užupis is a vibrant cultural hub attracting locals and tourists alike with its creative energy and unique community ethos.
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Tip: The best time to visit Užupis is during spring and summer when outdoor events and street art are most vibrant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the neighborhood on foot via its historic bridges connecting to Vilnius Old Town. Purchasing tickets in advance is generally not required as Užupis is an open district, but checking for any special events or exhibitions beforehand is recommended. Discounts may be available for guided tours or cultural events. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to cobblestone streets and some hilly areas.
Interesting facts
- •Užupis declared itself an independent republic on April 1, 1997, complete with its own constitution and president.
- •The Užupis Angel statue, unveiled in 2002, is a bronze sculpture symbolizing the neighborhood's artistic spirit and commemorates local artist Zenonas Šteinys.
- •Several historic bridges connect Užupis to Vilnius Old Town, including the Bernardine Bridge (1880) and Užupis Bridge (1901).
- •The area has preserved authentic wooden houses dating back to the early 20th century, especially in the Baltasis skersgatvis street.
- •Užupis hosts its own Constitution, which is displayed on a wall in multiple languages and includes whimsical declarations such as 'Everyone has the right to be happy.'
History
Užupis was first mentioned in the 15th century as a suburb located outside the defensive walls of Vilnius.
The area grew around important routes leading to Polotsk and developed its own identity with a mix of religious communities, including Orthodox and Augustinian presences.
Key historical structures include the St.
Bartholomew Church, originally built in 1644 and rebuilt multiple times, and the Bernardine Tertiary Monastery founded in 1495, which operated until 1864.
The neighborhood's bridges have historically linked it to the city, evolving from wooden to metal constructions in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
In modern times, Užupis declared itself a republic in 1997, fostering a cultural renaissance and artistic community that continues to define its character.
Place Guide
Užupis Angel2002
A bronze sculpture created by sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas and architect Algirdas Umbrasas in 2002, symbolizing the bohemian and artistic spirit of Užupis. It is a popular meeting point and cultural icon of the district.
St. Bartholomew Church1644 (original), 1788 (classicist rebuild)
Originally built as a wooden church in 1644, this church was rebuilt in a classicist style in 1788 by architect Martynas Knakfusas. It suffered damage during the 1794 uprising and was restored in 1824. The church historically served as a filial church of the Bernardine Church.
Bernardine Tertiary Monastery1495
Founded in 1495 and active until 1864, this monastery was an important religious and cultural institution in Užupis. It was located on Malūnų Street and connected to the city via a covered pedestrian bridge over the Vilnia River, which burned down in 1749.
Historic Bridges of Užupis1880, 1901
Three main bridges historically connected Užupis with Vilnius Old Town: Bernardine Bridge (1880), Užupis Bridge (1901), and Paplauja Bridge (1880). Originally wooden, these bridges were rebuilt in metal and remain vital links today.
