Angel of Užupis

What it is

The Angel of Užupis is a bronze figure on a tall column that stands in the central square of Užupis, the small bohemian district just across the Vilnia river from the Old Town. Unveiled in 2002, the angel — trumpet raised — has become the emblem of Užupis, the artists' quarter that famously declared itself an independent 'republic' with its own tongue-in-cheek constitution. It marks the symbolic heart of the neighbourhood and the spot most visitors head for first.

Opinions on the monument itself vary — a few find it understated — but the overwhelming verdict is that it's a charming, essential part of the Vilnius experience, less for the statue alone than for the creative, relaxed square it presides over. The surrounding area buzzes with cafés, bars and galleries, and there's a fun detail at the base: scan the QR code and the 'talking sculpture' shares a surprise.

• Bronze angel on a column, unveiled in 2002; the emblem of Užupis.
• Sits in a lively central square full of cafés, bars and restaurants.
• QR code at the base activates the 'talking sculpture'.
• A hub for exploring nearby riverside art and the Užupis Constitution wall.

Good to know

The angel stands on Užupio gatvė, a short walk over the river from the Old Town. It's a free, open-air landmark you can see any time, and it works best as the starting point for a wider wander through Užupis — on to the Constitution wall, the riverside art and the cafés that give the district its character. For the full story of the 'republic', its constitution and the April 1 spirit, see our Užupis guide.