Vilnius

Vilnius, or Vilna, capital and largest city of Lithuania (pop. 590,100). Settled in the 10th century, Vilnius was named the Lithuanian capital in 1323. The city later came under Polish rule (1569) and then was annexed by Russia (1795) which retained power until 1918. Between that year and 1938, control was contested by Poland and Lithuania. In 1939 Lithuania recovered control, but the country (and the city) was occupied by the USSR until 1991. The Nazi occupation (1941–45) destroyed the large Jewish population. Today Vilnius is an important trade center for grain, timber, chemicals, machinery, leather goods, paper, and textiles. It is noted for its public buildings and churches reflecting Roman, Byzantine, and Gothic influences.

See also: Lithuania.