|
Photograph © Jonas Sauciunas
Photograph © Jonas Sauciunas
|
|
|
Built:
1974- 1980
Type: Tower
Maximum height: 1,071 feet / 326 meters
Location: Sausio 13-osios gatve 10
City: Vilnius
State: Vilniaus Apskritis
|
L
ike some fantastic UFO rising into the sky, the observation and dining levels of the Vilnius TV tower have become more than a landmark for this Baltic nation – they represent its struggle for freedom and independence. It was at this tower in the waning years of the Soviet Union that more than a dozen people gave their lives as the Communists struggled to keep their empire from slipping through their fingers. The TV tower unites a people with its programs, and its iconic presence. It is a focal point for festivals, holidays, and rallies of all sort.
>December, 2000 - Using long strings of lights, the tower is turned into a giant Christmas tree. The tradition continues each season until 2010, which is Lithuania’s 1,000th anniversary.
>13 January, 1991 - Soviet tanks storm the tower to stop broadcasts advocating Lithuania’s independence from the Soviet Union. 14 people were killed and 500 wounded.
|
|
|
