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Tucked in Lithuania's north-westernmost corner, Klaipeda stands as the third largest city in the country. Its suitable location beside the Baltic Sea has made it a thriving trade and travel hub, as it is the country's sole seaport and point of entry from the sea.

Founded by the Livonian Order around 750 years ago, its name literally means "feet going down in the marsh," as a nod to its sprawling marshlands near the mouth of the Nemunas River. Its extensive history made it bequeath a rich cultural heritage, as attested by the numerous historical sites dotting the landscape.

Nevertheless, what Klaipeda is probably most known for is for its proximity to the famed Curonian Spit, a thin strip of land stretching 98 kilometers long. It bisects the Baltic Sea and forms the so-called Curonian Lagoon. Formed by nature around 5,000 years ago, it was used as a major pagan trading center during the ancient times, and is characterized by picturesque sand dunes that have made the highest drifting in Europe. The Lagoon, however, is constantly under the threat of destruction by natural forces, and thus has continued to exist only by virtue of human preservation, which prompted the UNESCO to declare it as a World Heritage Site. The Lagoon today is also a popular holiday resort, with an array of good beaches and national parks.

Another attraction in Klaipeda is its so-called Old Town. Filled with Fachwerk-style buildings, rows of cobbled streets, and craftsmen's courtyards, this part of the city is said to look almost the same way it did some 500 years ago. A highlight there is the Theater Square, which is geographically and figuratively the heart of Klaipeda. Dating beyond the 18th century, it embellishes a distinct Neo-Classical style of architecture and is credited for playing a vital part in the city's cultural life.

One can also see the famed Meridianas, a sailing vessel considered to be among the most recognizable landmarks in Klaipeda. It sits on the waters of the Dane River and stands as the informal symbol of the city. There is also the Memelburg Castle, a strategic fortress built by the Teutonic Order back in the 13th century. Visitors can still see the ruins of its massive walls, brick bastions, ramparts, and quadrangular towers. Nearby, by the banks of Smiltele River lies the ancient settlement of Zarde, which flourished during the Iron Age of the 10th century.

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