It is a shame that this site will probably not make it onto the list as it was perhaps my favourite site in Eastern Lithuania. The main point of interest is the heavily reconstructed castle. I guess the reconstruction may explain why ICOMOS were not keen on inscribing it as this type of whole sale rebuilding is not particularly favourable in Europe, though Warsaw has set a precedent for this kind of reconstruction. It sits on a small island in the middle of a lake so has a great setting.

A friend visited in summer and really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere so recommended it to me. I visited in February the lake surrounding the castle was completely frozen over, so I had my first experience of walking across frozen water. This may be normal for many people from colder climes but for me this was unique, and it was nice exchanging ecstatic glances with others not used to this kind of travel. There were also several people fishing in the ice, again a new experience for myself.

The castle itself was very interesting and had some fine exhibitions on the reconstruction and what it meant as a symbol of Lithuanian identity, especial as this was subsumed at the time in the USSR. Then I retired to the banks of the lake to have an excellent stew of game from the surrounding national park and just enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere. A small word of warning though the Train Station and main bus station are a long 35 minute from the actual castle and whilst the main road which takes up most of the walk is a little dull.

On the whole this is a really great place to visit. I can't imagine it finding its way onto the list, however I would strongly recommend visiting if you have a half day or so spare in Vilnius.