Panevezys

About

The medieval city of Panevėžys was an important cultural center for centuries - it was even home to the first Lithuanian bookstore and printing house. However, the First and Second World Wars hit the city hard. In August 1941, the locals, assisted by the police, rounded up 7,523 of the city’s Jews and executed them. The war, and subsequent Soviet rule, destroyed much of the city’s historic architecture, leaving its ‘old town’ a unique mish-mash of pre-war, Soviet, and modern buildings. They has a slew of late 19th century churches, which are dwarfed by its vibrant neo-Baroque cathedral. However, the city’s rich cultural heritage is preserved in its museums, such as the historic windmill which showcases traditional linen production techniques, and theatres, where visitors can see traditional plays and dances.