Uzupis

Uzupis is a small district of narrow streets and old houses across the Vilnele from the old town, which artists reinvented in the 1990s as a tongue-in-cheek independent republic, complete with its own flag, president and constitution. That constitution, mounted on mirrored plaques in many languages, is the reason most people come.

Background

The name means "beyond the river" and refers to the Vilnia, the river that also gave Vilnius its name. The district covers about 148 acres, and of its roughly 7,000 residents nearly 1,000 are artists, which has drawn comparisons with Montmartre in Paris. Bridges first crossed the river here in the 16th century. The 38 articles of the local constitution and its three mottos hang on a wall in Paupio street in 23 languages, with Sanskrit and Hindi versions added on 25 May 2017. The trumpeting angel in the main square was unveiled on April 1, 2002. An earlier egg sculpture, replaced by the larger statue of Gabriel, sold at auction for 10,200 litas and today stands on Pylimo street.

Source: Wikipedia, "Užupis"

What to look for

• The Constitution wall - the playful articles on mirrored plaques, including the right to be happy.
• The Uzupis angel - the statue on the square, the district's emblem.
• Artists' studios and cafes - galleries, workshops and riverside bars.
• The Vilnele riverbank - the willows and small beaches by the water.

When to go

Warm months for the riverside cafes and street life; 1 April, when Uzupis playfully celebrates its independence day. Daytime is best for the constitution and galleries.

Before you go

It is a small district and a state of mind rather than a big attraction, best enjoyed by wandering and reading the wall rather than ticking sights. It has grown more polished and popular over the years, less scruffy than its founding myth. An hour or two, easily folded into an old town day.

Nearby

St Anne's church and the old town are across the footbridge; the Bernardine gardens are alongside.

Key facts