TV Tower, Vilnius

The Vilnius Television Tower is an iconic landmark and one of the most recognizable buildings in Lithuania. Standing at a height of 326.5 metres, it is the tallest building in the country and ranks among the tallest television towers in the world. Its impressive height makes it the 8th-tallest in Europe and the 26th-tallest in the world.

Located on the 19th floor of the tower is a rotating viewing platform, which offers visitors stunning panoramic views of Vilnius and its surroundings. This platform is unique because it is the only observation deck in Lithuania that is installed at such a height. The platform is part of the Milky Way restaurant, which is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. In clear weather, visitors can enjoy European cuisine, including fresh salads, various snacks, steaks, and desserts while taking in the breathtaking views of the city. The restaurant's annular floor rotates 360 degrees every 55 minutes, providing diners with an ever-changing view of the city.

The construction of the Vilnius Television Tower took six years and was completed on December 30, 1980. It remains the tallest building in Lithuania to this day. The tower is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a great place to celebrate special events and festivities. During the Christmas holidays, the tower is usually decorated as the largest Christmas tree, while it serves as a marvellous site for fireworks on New Year's Eve.

Apart from the restaurant and the viewing platform, the Television Tower also houses the Fight for Freedom Museum, which serves as a reminder of the events that took place there on the night of 13 January 1991. This was a crucial moment in Lithuania's history, as Lithuanians won their independence in a struggle that lasted for years. Small granite obelisks near the TV tower commemorate the 12 defenders who lost their lives that night.

The Vilnius Television Tower is not only a magnificent building that offers stunning views of the city but also a symbol of Lithuania's struggle for independence. It is a must-see attraction for visitors to Vilnius, and a place that locals are proud of.