Trakai Castle - Trakai - TravBuddy

Trakai Island Castle is located in Trakai, Lithuania on an island in Lake Galvė. The castle is sometimes referred to as "Little Marienburg". The construction of the stone castle was begun in the 14th century by Kęstutis, and around 1409 major works were completed by his son Vytautas the Great, who died in this castle in 1430. Trakai was one of the main centers of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the castle held great strategic importance.

The Castle was in ruins , but have not been restored to its 15.th Century Appearance. When Lithuania recovered a portion of the Vilnius territory, including Trakai, in 1939, restoration work was continued before being interrupted by World War II and the attendant Soviet and German occupations. Recently it has been resumed under Soviet rule.

The Trakai Castle is a must see if you are in the Area and its perfect for day trips from Vilnius. There are several exhibits about the history of Lithuania inside the castle walls and you can even shoot with bows and arrows (5LT). Outside you can rent sailboats, rowing boats or pedaling boats.

PS: If you see at big blue palace on the other side of the lake its the Tyszkiewicz palace ;)