The picturesque view of Vilnius from its Television Tower

Vilnius Television Tower, being the largest building in Lithuania, with a height of 326,5 meters, dominates above the city of Vilnius. With its monolithic architecture and the picturesque view of entire Vilnius, this tower is sandwiched between the modern city rush and concrete remains of the past. Built as the five-year planned investment by the Soviets, this tower played a major role during the 1991's battle against the troops of Soviets and helped to gain independence. Nowadays, Vilnius Television Tower, being the most visible building in Vilnius, greets every visitor of the city. 

A symbol of freedom

The Soviets built the Vilnius Television Tower as a strategic object funded by the 11th Five Years Plan. The construction of the tower lasted for six years, from 1974 to 1980. The Tower and observation deck were made from the concrete as it was widespread during Soviet times. The radio transmitters were placed in the lower part of the concrete tower construction, and there was a sudden change in all radio and television retransmissions. 

The Soviet tanks and military surrounded the Vilnius Television Tower on January 13 in 1991 intending to cut down the Lithuanian radio and television transmission and aiming to broadcast the Soviet propaganda. During this bloody night, 14 unarmed Lithuanian civilians lost their lives while standing for Lithuanian independence. Nowadays, on the first floor of the Tower, the museum that commemorates the victims of the January 13 events is established. 

A rotating observation deck

The observation deck of the Vilnius Television Tower is settled in the circular part, 165 m above the ground. On the bright days, Vilnius and its neighborhoods are visible in the radius of 50 km. One of the main attractions of the Tower is the rotating restaurant named "Paukščių takas" (The Milky Way). The platform with the restaurant rotates 360 degrees within 55 minutes. The picturesque panoramic view of Vilnius and its surroundings opens from the restaurant's windows. The restaurant serves delicious dishes of European cuisine, and it is a perfect place to have a romantic dinner during the sunset with the astonishing views of Vilnius. From the observation deck, all Vilnius city corners are visible - starting with the roofs of the Old Town churches and ending with the famous Fabijoniškės district, where the Chernobyl TV hit was filmed. 

The highest building in Lithuania

Interesting fact: the Vilnius Television Tower is included in the list of the world's tallest buildings. Being the 326 m high tower, this is the 8th highest building in Europe and the 26th in the world. The tickets for adults vary from 8 to 11 euros, depending on the visiting days with additional discounts for seniors, children, and students. 

The Vilnius Television Tower opens up the outstanding picturesque views of entire Vilnius and its suburbs. Besides the rotating observation deck, the tower remains a symbol of Lithuanian freedom and independence.