On Tuesday, 23 October 2007, my cousin Liliana and I traveled to Trakai to visit the Trakai Historical National Park, the smallest of Lithuania’s five national parks.
We traveled from Vilnius to Trakai by bus and then walked the remainder of the distance to the Island Castle on Lake GalvÄ—. The Island Castle was left in ruins after the 17th century wars with the Russians, but was restored between 1951 and 1962. The Island Castle is one of Lithuania’s most famous sights.
Trakai itself dates back to the 12th century. The city was conquered by the Teutonic Knights, but later became one of Europe’s strongest fortresses under Grand Duke Vytautas.
The Island Castle across the Water – Trakai
SOURCE: The Island Castle across the Water – Trakai. Photographed by Stephen J. Danko on 23 October 2007.
The Island Castle – Trakai
SOURCE: The Island Castle – Trakai. Photographed by Stephen J. Danko on 23 October 2007.
Interior Courtyard of the Island Castle – Trakai
SOURCE: Interior Courtyard of the Island Castle – Trakai. Photographed by Stephen J. Danko on 23 October 2007.
Artifacts in the Island Castle – Trakai
SOURCE: Artifacts in the Island Castle – Trakai. Photographed by Stephen J. Danko on 23 October 2007.
Copyright © 2007 by Stephen J. Danko
Hi, Just wanted to comment on the nice photos of the castle. I visited that island last year, and had forgotten what the name of the town and lake were. Beautiful place, wish I could have gone out boating for a few hours, but not enough time – of course. The history in the Baltic States is astounding. I’m glad I had the opportunity to visit such a wonderful place in the world. Good luck on your trip. Donna Hague Wendt