Travel Guide in Klaipeda

This Klaipeda travel guide will provide visitors with important tourist information when visiting this Lithuanian city. Klaipeda is the third largest city in Lithuania, and is located towards the northwest part of the country. The city was initially established by Baltic tribes, and its original name was "Memel." This was after the Memel River, located to the south. The castle and entire city were built in 1252 by the Teutonic Order. Klaipeda is the only seaport in Lithuania, so it has ferry connections with Germany and Sweden.

History

For most part of the city’s history, Klaipeda, which was known as "Memel" then, was a part of Prussia. During this time, a number of battles took place between Lithuanian lords and people from Prussia for complete rule of the city. Klaipeda was also subject to invasions from Russia and Sweden. The city turned into a flourishing town under the rule of the Prussian Kingdom. "Memelland" was declared a free city after Germany’s loss in World War I. It was then annexed by the Republic Of Lithuania. Nazi Germany took over the city for a brief period before WW II. In 1945, it was given back to Lithuania, and since its independence, it has become one of the most buoyant cities in the country.

Main Attractions

The Memelburg Castle, which dates back to the 13^th century, is one of the most popular attractions that tourists must visit in the city. Another place tourists can visit is the maritime museum, which is located in Fort Wilhelm. This was established at the height of the Curonian Spit in the 19^th century. Tourists should also make it a point to visit the ancient Zarde settlement, which is located on the Smiltele River’s right bank. This settlement is said to date back to the 10^th century (Iron Age), and is known to have been occupied till the 16^th century.

Eating and Drinking

Klaipeda is a well developed city that boasts of Western and Lithuanian restaurants. Most of these are situated on the main street of the city. Tourists who want to witness a historical site and taste good food should try the restaurant Stora Antis, which was built on a burnt foundation of the Great Fire of 1854. The restaurant serves Polish, Russian, Byelorussian, Balkan, and Ukrainian cuisines. The city also has a number of bars and pubs where tourists can enjoy a few drinks. Most of these pubs are located in the city center and towards the southern part of the city. Klaipeda is famous for its wines and beers, so tourists are advised to try some of the local alcohol here.