Visiting Užupis Republic, Vilnius, Lithuania

Užupis is a tiny “republic” that started as an April Fools’ Day joke in 1997. Though less than 1km square, it has its own government, constitution and currency. It is separated from the old town of Vilnius (the capital of Lithuania) by the Vilnia river. The bronze Užupis Mermaid sculpture overlooking the river was created in 2002 by sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas.

The name Užupis means “the other side of the river” in Lithuanian. Užupis has around 7000 residents, 1000 of whom are artists. The whole area is in essence a walk-in art installation, with a bohemian, laid-back atmosphere that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The quirky constitution and government, and self-declared independence adds to this.

Uzupis is well worth a visit if you find yourself in Vilnius. Simply cross the bridge from the old town and enter the art-filled neighbourhood. You can even get your passport stamped at the Užupis Information Centre!