See & Do

Independence Square

A spacious civic square beside the Seimas on Gedimino prospektas, Independence Square is a powerful symbol of Lithuanian freedom and the site of the January 1991 barricades.

Updated Jun 20262 min read·1 sections

A wide paved public square in Vilnius with a tall, unique modernist street lamp on the left, lush green trees in the middle ground, and contemporary buildings under a soft blue sky.

The short version

✓A potent symbol of Lithuanian independence and statehood
✓Spacious open venue for national holidays, festivals and gatherings
✓Sits beside the Seimas (parliament) and the National Library
✓Historic ground of the January 1991 barricades against Soviet forces

What to expect

Independence Square (Nepriklausomybės aikštė) is a celebrated historical landmark and a potent symbol of Lithuanian freedom. Laid out at the western end of Gedimino prospektas in the Naujamiestis district, the broad, open plaza is framed by the Seimas Palace, the Office of the Seimas and the Martynas Mažvydas National Library, and it serves as a central point for national holidays, festivals and public gatherings.

Vilnius Oldtown Aerial — Vilnius, Lithuania — BigHead · CC BY-SA 4.0

The square carries deep recent history: it was here, by the parliament, that Lithuanians raised barricades in January 1991 to defend the restored independent state against Soviet forces. While some visitors note that certain features could use renovation, the overall sentiment is one of pride in this significant public space. It is an easy stop on a walk down Gedimino prospektas and a natural meeting point; joining a walking tour helps bring its history to life.