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Kaunas Lithuania History – A Short Introduction
Kaunas Lithuania’s second-largest city sits at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris, the two largest rivers of the country. The name “Kaunas” was originally used as a person’s first name, later as a surname.
The city was strongly influenced by its status as the provisional capital during the inter-war period and by the growth in the industry during the Soviet occupation.
Its most interesting districts lie along the banks of the Nemunas and include the Old Town of Kaunas at the confluence of the two rivers, and Naujamiestis (New Town) on both sides of Laisvės alėja (Freedom Avenue) to the east and upon the Žaliakalnis crest along Vaižganto and Kipro Petrausko streets.
Development of the Kaunas Settlement
The settlement grew around a castle built at the end of the 13th century and was mentioned in written sources in 1361. According to legend, the city was founded in the year 1030 by Kunas (Kaunas), son of the Roman Palemon. It acquired the rights of Magdeburg in 1408, a Hanseatic merchant trade office by 1441, and a school, hospital, and apothecary in the 16th century.
The city was ravaged by Russian soldiers in 1655 and by the Swedes in 1701. Much of the city’s population died of the plague in 1657 and 1708. It was damaged by fire in 1732 and plundered twice by Napoleon’s army at the beginning of the 19th century.
Kaunas Lithuania as a Military and Administrative Center
Kaunas was the center of an administrative province in 1843 and of the Samogitian diocese after the 1863 uprising. In 1861 Lithuania’s first branch of the St. Petersburg–Warsaw railway line passed through Kaunas. A year later it acquired the 1.28 km long train tunnel, which is used to this day.
The railway stimulated the development of industry and the construction of residential districts for workers. In 1879 Kaunas was assigned 1st class military defense status and was encircled by fortifications.
It acquired army barracks and other military buildings. A law limiting public construction to two floors was issued as well. Its urban structure changed once again with its rapid expansion as the provisional capital of independent Lithuania at the beginning of the 20th century.
Kaunas: The Temporary Capital of Lithuania (1919-1940)
During the interwar period (1918-1940), the city played a pivotal role in Lithuania’s history. As the temporary capital, it witnessed significant cultural, architectural, and political developments.
The city became the official “temporary capital” of Lithuania after Vilnius was seized and controlled by Poland between 1920 and 19391. During this time, Kaunas served as the epicenter of state affairs, cultural life, and artistic expression.
Modernist Architecture
Kaunas flourished architecturally during the interwar years. Modernist buildings sprouted across the city, reflecting various contemporary style trends. These structures included public buildings, museums, educational institutions, hotels, and residential complexes. The dense concentration of modernist architecture in Kaunas remains a unique phenomenon in Europe.
UNESCO Recognition
In 2015, 44 interwar modernist architectural sites in Kaunas were included in the List of European Heritage Sites. These buildings, characterized by high artistic quality and regional features, have survived to this day. In 2017, Kaunas was designated a UNESCO City of Design, further acknowledging its architectural legacy.
Kaunas During Soviet Occupation
Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, underwent significant changes during the Soviet occupation that lasted from 1940 to 1990. This period left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and social fabric. Let’s delve into the key aspects of Kaunas during this tumultuous era.
The Soviet Arrival
In 1940, following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, the Soviet Union occupied Lithuania. Kaunas, which had been the temporary capital during the interwar period, became a focal point for Soviet policies.
Urban Transformation
The Soviets implemented large-scale urban planning projects in Kaunas. They constructed massive housing blocks, imposing their architectural style on the city. These buildings, characterized by their functionalist design, still dominate certain neighborhoods.
Repression and Surveillance
The KGB (Soviet secret police) established its presence in Kaunas. Political dissidents, intellectuals, and anyone suspected of anti-Soviet sentiments faced arrests, interrogations, and imprisonment. The infamous Lukiškės Prison became a symbol of oppression.
The 1953 Uprising
In 1953, Kaunas witnessed a major uprising against Soviet rule. Workers protested harsh conditions, demanding better treatment and political reforms. The revolt was brutally suppressed.
The End of Soviet Rule
With Lithuania’s independence in 1990, the Soviet era came to an end. Kaunas transitioned to a new phase, reclaiming its identity and rebuilding its cultural heritage.