- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways. Ad
Perched on top of three lakes, Trakai is a historic city and lake resort that once served as the capital of Lithuania during the Middle Ages. Located only a short drive away from the city of Vilnius, the city sprawls to an area of over 11.52 square kilometers and is inhabited by around 5,000 people composed of Karaims, Lithuanians, Russians, Tatars, Poles, and Jews. Despite its small stature, the town is big in cultural heritage.
The highlight of a visit to Trakai is the impressive Trakai Island Castle, which sits on the waters of Lake Galve. Built in the 14th century by the Kestutis, it is reputed to be the only insular castle in the entire Eastern Europe. It once served as one of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania's main centers. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the land, its strategic location made it the priority of invading armies, and was thus often destroyed over the course of its history. In fact, in the 17th century, it was just left desolated and abandoned. It was only during the 19th century that the castle got its dose of makeover, when it was reverted to its 15th century style of architecture.
Another attraction worthy to be seen is the Trakai Peninsula Castle, which sits on a lovely peninsula by Lake Galve's southern shores. Considered as one of Lithuania's largest defensive castles, it is believed to have been commissioned by the Duke of Lithuania, Kestutis, at around the 14th century. It was almost completely destroyed, however, during the Russian-Swedish War of 1655, thus, only the ruins of its massive walls and towers can be seen today. The Lithuanian government is currently in the process of restoring the iconic structure, which acts as a museum that features a display of sacred art.
Another castle, Senieji Trakai, is renowned as the first-ever enclosure-type brick castle in Lithuania. Believed to date back to the 14th century, it was built by the Grand Duke Gediminas as his seat of power when Trakai temporarily became the capital of the country. Perched on a hilltop, it was devastated by the invading Teutonic Order in 1391 and was subsequently abandoned. It was eventually left in the care of Benedictine monks in 1405.
User blogs:
Cheaper galactic spaceliner unveiled
News from http://news.ph.msn.com/top-stories/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3737940 Richard Branson unveiled Monday a commercial spaceliner offering tourists a cheaper chance to experience the thrill of weightlessness and view the splendor of the Earth from space. The British billionaire hopes to offer tickets aboard his spacecraft at a cost of 200,000 dollars each, giving adventurous ... Read full Blog post
Indonesia Eco Tourism
Tour Itenaray Day 01 BALI - LABUAN BAJO – RINCA ISLAND – KOMODO ISLAND (L.D) Pick up from your hotel in Bali and transfer to the airport, for flight to Labuan Bajo (West Flores) for approximately one and half hours. On arrival in Labuan Bajo airport, will be welcomed and met with our local representative or tour guide. Than transfer to the harbour to catch a boat cross to Rinca ... Read full Blog post
San Gimignano and San Pellegrino
Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post
An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga
Its a party in the sky as multi colored hot air balloons piloted ny different pilots from various partso of the world participated in this annual gathering. As early as 5am, the 2,500 hectare aviation complex at Clar Economic Zone in Pampanga was already crammedi with excitement. Clusters of hot air balloon participants busily prepare their own balloons for liftoff as they need to take advantage of ... Read full Blog post
In our Magazine
Summer Destination to Avoid: Gulf of Mexico
EPA is failing to do their job monitoring the air and reporting factual data. The people need to be made aware that their lives and long term livelihood are at stake because of the air quality in Gulf of Mexico.
How to Avoid Traveling Troubles
Traveling to a certain destination might not become memorable if there are too many troubles along the way. Remember that even the best trips are usually not trouble-free. Follow these tips that help lessen the hassles.
Unique Toys from Japan
Japan is known for its fascinating, and sometimes, eccentric culture. From anime, karaoke, to advanced technology, the Land of the Rising Sun always has something unique to offer.
