2010 Program Dates: August 1 - 14

THE REGION

Lithuania is the southernmost of the three countries that line the Baltic Sea north of Poland. It is a land in which the Arts have always been venerated. Famous for its peaceful “singing revolution,” Lithuania was the first occupied Soviet republic to break free from the Soviet Union and restore its sovereignty via the declaration of independence on 11 March 1990.

Vilnius, its capital city, is a stunningly picturesque Baroque city on the banks of the rivers Neris and Vilnia, and it has one of the most impressive and biggest old towns in Eastern Europe. In the warrens of cobblestone streets, taverns where strong, dark beer is home brewed share real estate with sleek cybercafés: sometimes under the same roof! Vilnius University, founded in 1579, is a Renaissance-style complex with countless inner courtyards, forming a city within a city. For any writer who is yearning for inspiration, this is the perfect lace to spend a few summer weeks or longer. The climate is mild, the city’s skyline is fringed with church spires. The best view is from the top of Gedimino Tower, a 13th century fortress, visible from all parts of the city.

The poet Eugenijus tells of the influence his time in Vilnius: "Vilnius has added content to my writing, specific images, maybe certain rhythms that coming from walking on concrete, and perhaps holds up to me the mirror of my own stark guilt of being condemned to be human in a violent and narcissistic world."

Bohemia is valued here: artistry is part of life. Wood carving, ceramics, metal working, jewelry making—all can be found in the open-air markets, or the galleries near the outdoor cafes. The locals don’t just appreciate art: they live it. The country is proud of its recent inclusion in the EU and NATO and many of the locals speak fluent English. The country also embraces technology in a fresh and captivating way—just inside the city’s most famous gate, tourists can rent a Segway to navigate the large Old Town!

Lonely Planet calls it “The New Prague.”

Click here to read an excerpt from poet and 2009 SLS Lithuania faculty Kerry Shawn Keys essay “Lithuania: how did I end up here”.


In 2009, Lithuania will celebrate its Millennium – one thousand years ago, the country’s name was first mentioned: in the Annales Quedlinburgenses books. Expect festivals, parties, musicians in the streets. It is an exciting time to visit the country where amber washes up on shore so often that folk myths relate the story of a young fisherman who was lured to his death by a mermaid and shattered her castle in order to go home.

Exciting too, is the experience of White Nights—at midsummer, the endless days cast a spell of boundless energy and productivity.

Watch filmmaker Ken Calhoun's video about White Nights!

Learn about Jewish Lithuania.