Old Town (Senamiestis) - The Heart of Kaunas

• HelloLabas
  [lah-bahs]
• GoodbyeViso gero
  [vee-soh geh-roh]
• YesTaip
  [tah-eep]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomePrašau
  [prah-shau]
• Thank youAčiū
  [ah-choo]
• Excuse me/SorryAtsiprašau
  [at-see-prah-shau]
• How are you?Kaip gyveni?
  [kah-eep gee-veh-nee]
• Fine. And you?Gerai. O tu?
  [geh-rye. oh too]
• Do you speak English?Ar kalbate anglų kalba?
  [ahr kahl-bah-teh ahn-gloo kahl-bah]
• I don't understandNesuprantu
  [neh-soo-prahn-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNorėčiau pamatyti meniu, prašau
  [noh-reh-chiau pah-mah-tea meh-nyoo, prah-shau]
• I don't eat meatAš nevalgau mėsos
  [ahsh neh-vahl-gow meh-sohs]
• Cheers!Į sveikatą!
  [ee sveh-kah-tah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNorėčiau sumokėti, prašau
  [noh-reh-chiau soo-moh-keh-tee, prah-shau]

• Help!Pagalba!
  [pah-gahl-bah]
• Go away!Eik šalin!
  [ayk shah-leen]
• Call the Police!Paskambinkite policijai!
  [pah-skahm-been-kee-teh poh-lee-see-yah-ee]
• Call a doctor!Paskambinkite gydytojui!
  [pah-skahm-been-kee-teh gih-dih-toh-yoo-ee]
• I'm lostAš pasiklydau
  [ahsh pah-see-kloo-dow]
• I'm illAš sergu
  [ahsh sehr-goo]

• I'd like to buy...Norėčiau nusipirkti...
  [noh-reh-chiau noo-see-peerk-tee]
• I'm just lookingAš tik žiūriu
  [ahsh teek zhee-oo-ree-oo]
• How much is it?Kiek tai kainuoja?
  [kyek tai kah-ee-noo-yah]
• That's too expensiveTai per brangu
  [tai pehr brahn-goo]
• Can you lower the price?Ar galite sumažinti kainą?
  [ahr gah-lee-teh soo-mah-zin-tee kah-ee-nah]

• What time is it?Kiek laiko?
  [kyek lah-ee-koh]
• It's one o'clockYra viena valanda
  [ee-rah vyeh-nah vah-lahn-dah]
• Half past (10)Dešimt po pusės
  [deh-shimt poh poo-sehs]
• MorningRytas
  [rih-tahs]
• AfternoonPopietė
  [poh-pyeh-teh]
• EveningVakaras
  [vah-kah-rahs]
• YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
• TodayŠiandien
  [shahn-dyehn]
• TomorrowRytoj
  [rih-toy]
• 1Vienas
  [vyeh-nahs]
• 2Du
  [doo]
• 3Trys
  [treese]
• 4Keturi
  [keh-too-ree]
• 5Penki
  [pehn-kee]
• 6Šeši
  [sheh-shee]
• 7Septyni
  [sehp-tee-nee]
• 8Aštuoni
  [ahs-too-oh-nee]
• 9Devyni
  [deh-vee-nee]
• 10Dešimt
  [deh-shimt]

• Where's a/the...?Kur yra...?
  [koor yrah]
• What's the address?Koks adresas?
  [kohks ah-dreh-sahs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ar galite man parodyti (žemėlapyje)?
  [ahr gah-lee-teh mahn pah-roh-dee-tee zheh-meh-lah-pyeh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada yra kitas (autobusas)?
  [kah-dah yrah kee-tahs ow-toh-boos-ahs]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilietas (į ....)
  [bee-lyeh-tahs ee]

Kaunas Old Town (Senamiestis) began its development in the late 13th century, coinciding with the establishment of the city itself. The strategic location at the confluence of the Neris and Nemunas rivers facilitated trade and defense, leading to the formation of a bustling settlement. The oldest written mention of Kaunas dates back to 1361, highlighting its significance in the region.

In the 14th century, Kaunas gained prominence as a defensive fortress against the Teutonic Knights. The construction of Kaunas Castle in the 14th century played a vital role in military strategy, serving as a stronghold during various conflicts, including the Battle of Grunwald in 1410, which marked a turning point in the struggle against the Teutonic Order.

The 15th and 16th centuries saw Kaunas Old Town flourish as a trading hub, especially during the period of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The establishment of the Magdeburg rights in 1408 allowed for greater autonomy and encouraged the growth of commerce. The town's market square became a vibrant center for merchants and craftsmen, contributing to the cultural and economic development of the area.

The 17th and 18th centuries introduced Baroque architecture to Kaunas, with the construction of several significant buildings, including the St. George's Church and the Town Hall. This period marked a cultural renaissance in the Old Town, as it became a center for arts and education, attracting artists, scholars, and theologians from across Europe.

The 19th century brought industrialization to Kaunas, transforming the Old Town’s landscape. The construction of railways and factories facilitated economic growth, while the city became a melting pot of various cultures. The influx of different ethnic groups, including Poles, Jews, and Russians, contributed to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.

After World War I and Lithuania's declaration of independence in 1918, Kaunas was designated as the temporary capital. This period saw extensive urban development in the Old Town, with the construction of new public buildings, schools, and cultural institutions. The architectural style shifted towards modernism, reflecting the spirit of independence and national identity.

During World War II, Kaunas was occupied by both Soviet and Nazi forces, leading to significant destruction and loss of life, particularly among the Jewish community. Post-war, the Old Town underwent reconstruction, but many historical buildings were lost forever. The Soviet era brought further changes, with a focus on industrialization and uniformity in architecture.

Since regaining independence in 1990, Kaunas Old Town has experienced a cultural and historical revival. Efforts to restore and preserve historical buildings have been made, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. The area has become a vibrant cultural hub, hosting festivals, art exhibitions, and events that celebrate its rich history and diverse heritage.

Old Town (Senamiestis) is centrally located in Kaunas, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the main bus and train stations, you can walk to Old Town in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, local buses (routes 1, 4, 5, and 29) connect to the Old Town area and run frequently throughout the day. Taxis and rideshare services are also available and provide a convenient option for travelers arriving from farther neighborhoods.

Old Town is best explored on foot due to its compact nature and pedestrian-friendly streets. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, and there are designated bike lanes. Public transport options include buses and trolleybuses, with stops located near major sights. If you prefer a guided experience, consider joining a walking tour to learn about the rich history of the area.

Old Town is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night, particularly those that are less populated. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, always be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance. It is advisable to have your hotel information handy, as they can assist in emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are available in close proximity, and pharmacies are scattered throughout Old Town for minor health needs. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and consider layers due to changing weather. Don’t wear overly casual or beach attire while visiting churches or formal establishments. Religion: Do respect religious sites by being quiet and dressing modestly. Don’t take photos inside churches without permission. Public Transport: Do keep your tickets handy and validate them before boarding. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and 'Labas' (Hello). Don’t engage in loud conversations in public spaces. Eating & Drinking: Do try traditional Lithuanian dishes and local beers. Don’t waste food or refuse offerings from locals, as this is considered impolite.

To experience Old Town like a local, visit the morning markets for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with shopkeepers, many of whom are eager to share stories about their products. Don’t miss the beautiful architecture of the area; take your time to explore the narrow streets and hidden courtyards. For a unique experience, try finding a local café to enjoy a cup of coffee with a slice of šakotis, a traditional Lithuanian cake.