Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 7 part b

Vilnius at 500 meters. We flew nearly 15 miles from the Old Town out into the country. Landing was a not what most of us would call smooth. Good thing for handles for us to hang on. We were regaled with a short history of hot air ballooning, singed the ends of our hair locks, forehead dotted with muddy champagne and a toasted with a glass of fresh champagne. What a thrill to fly so peacefully through the air. Highly recommended.

Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 7 part a

Hardly a better way to start the day but with a hot air ballon ride! So cool!

Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 6 part e

Tonight a sunset hike up a "noticeable " hill to the Three Crosses in Vilnius. The nearly 20 story climb certainly did some exercise for the cardio pulmonary system. Whew! Did not make it before the sun dropped over the horizon but still pretty cool.
Tomorrow, more exploring in Vilnius including a hot air ballon ride!!

Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 6 part d

Having fun in Lithuania!

Baltic Capitals- episode 6 part c

On to higher elevations. Enjoy some views looking down on the Old City of Vilnius from the Vilnius University St John bell tower.
Vilnius is the capital city of Lithuania. The exact location of this country's original capital has been lost in time, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was the first established state in this region. Vilnius distinguished itself as an important cultural center when it opened its university in 1579. The 20th century was turbulent times for this small country but its historical buildings survived. The round red brick structure on the highly defensible knoll is the Gedimias Tower. Strongly recommend to come visit...when renovation construction is done and the funicular is operational. What a climb!

Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 6 part b

Our city tour continues on the Vilnius University campus. Show you a little of the art work in the Kalbos Katherdral room. Interesting... Enjoy a few fun street scenes in the Old City. This city is pretty fascinating. Rich with history and intriguing architecture. Not to mention fabulous food and beverages. The Baltic people have nearly 400 different potato recipes. Apparently this source of food was easy and affordable. They liked it well enough to incorporate lots of creativity in preparation from pancakes to zeppelins. Never thought of a zeppelin as something to eat.. In case you are wondering, it is potato shaped like a small zeppelin with sausage in the middle covered in bacon gravy. Can you just feel your arteries harden.....😉

Baltic Capitals- Lithuania episode 6 part a

A new day, a new city, Vilnius, which starts with a city walking tour. St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church is our first stop. The chapel is in the foreground. Behind in the main sanctuary built also for defensive purposes in mind if you notice the round portals in the upper level window. Next is Cathedral Basilica complete with a separate bell tower and square. We wondered over to Vilnius University Architectural Ensemble and poked into the church of Sts John. Last pic in this set is the back yard of the Presidential Palace. Very nice.