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FACTS AND FIGURES
POPULATION: 3,751,000
81% Lithuanians
9% Russians
7% Poles and
3% others
AREA: 65,000 sq km (25,000 sq miles)
POPULATION DENSITY: 58 per sq km (36 per sq mile)
CAPITAL: Vilnius, 590,000 inhabitants
MAJOR CITIES: Kaunas 429,000 - Klaipeda 206,000 - Siauliai 148,000 - Panevezys 132,000
HISTORY
The word "Lithuania" was first mentioned in the Quedlinburg annals in 1009 A.D. In the 13th century the Lithuanian state was established. In the 15th century, the Lithuanian Grand Duchy became one of the most powerful medieval states of Eastern Europe. It covered the territory to the Black Sea in the south and almost to Moscow in the east. In 1569, a pact was concluded between Lithuania and Poland establishing a united state of Rzczpospolita. In 1795, after the final partition of Rzecpospolita, Lithuania was incorporated into Russia. For more than one century Lithuanians fought against tsarist oppression. In 1918, after the Bolshevik revolution, Lithuania proclaimed its independence and the restoration of Statehood. In 1940, Lithuania was occupied by the Soviet Union. After 50 years, Lithuania once again proclaimed its independence in 1990.
TOURS:
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Updated Tours Section for 2012
In Other Words...
Vytis Tours--Congratulations!!! My husband,cousin and I had the most wonderful trip!! We looked forward to our trip thinking we'd enjoy seeing the sights but never did we realize we'd be so affected. The spirit of the Lithuanian people is amazing!! The tour guide, Ronda was informative,fun AND patient with the "Amber Hunters". Both Ronda and Emelia were knowledgeable and readily available for countless questions. Must complement our driver as well. I had a pleasant surprise at breakfast on the first day of the tour--as I was enjoying my coffee I looked up--"Oh my God!" -there was a high school classmate (now living in Colorado-I'm in Ct.). You can imagine the excitement!! It set the tone. We all hit it off--and enjoyed sharing a drink, dinner and wonderful discussions each evening. We all agreed it was a very special trip. Thank you for a glitch free trip--well planned and one that we'll long remember.
Elena Maclean
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