Trakai enchants with its unique landscape dotted with lakes and its medieval castles, resurrected from ruins in the last century. The castles of Old Trakai, the Trakai Peninsula, and the Island Castle serve as a showcase of the region, reflecting not only the material architectural heritage but also the spiritual heritage of the Lithuanian people. As Lithuania was being established, Trakai was one of the most important cities politically and militarily. The castle, situated on one of the many islands in Lake Galvė, dates back to the 14th–15th centuries. It occupies a strategically advantageous location, protected on all sides by water. Interestingly, during the construction of Trakai Island Castle, the water level of the lake was nearly 2 meters higher than it is today! Back then, the current island was actually a group of three separate smaller islets. The construction of the castle, initiated by Grand Duke Kęstutis of Lithuania, was completed by his son Vytautas. He modified and modernized the original plan. A new Gothic brick castle was built, uniquely combining defensive and residential purposes. From 1409, Vytautas the Great relocated the state capital here, housing the Lithuanian Metrica and the state treasury. The imposing stone castle, decorated with red bricks, served as the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and a cultural hub for a long time. It was in this castle that Vytautas died on October 27, 1430. Trakai Island Castle, with its simplicity and modest elegance, embodied the most advanced fortification ideas of the 15th century. It is considered a masterpiece of medieval defensive architecture, the only water castle in Eastern Europe. All the Grand Dukes of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania lived in Trakai Island Castle. Only Sigismund Augustus broke this tradition by building a palace in Vilnius at the foot of Gediminas Hill. In 1951, extensive research began in the castle area, and in 1962, the restored palace became home to the Trakai History Museum. Besides the permanent museum exhibits, various exhibitions, conferences, music festivals, and performances are held in the castle courtyards and

halls. It has become a tradition to host Ancient Crafts Days, Vytautas the Great Historical Evenings, and other events in the castle courtyard. Additionally, educational programs are offered for children and adults. As in ancient times, Trakai Island Castle hosts official delegations from foreign countries, including kings, presidents, ministers, and ambassadors. Museum at Trakai Island Castle Since 1962, the central buildings of Trakai Island Castle have housed the Trakai History Museum, offering visitors a chance to explore the ancient castle, its austere interiors, and numerous fascinating exhibits. Visitors learn about the history of Trakai town, its castles, and the unique land of Trakai. An additional 16 exhibition halls are located in another part of the fortress, the casemates – fortifications that protect against projectiles. The casemate halls feature extensive collections of applied art, including pipes, clocks, furniture, porcelain, glass, and bone items. The museum also boasts vast collections of coins, medals, antique maps, hunting trophies, jewelry, household items, knight armor, and weapons, as well as valuable paintings. In total, the museum's collections number nearly 400,000 items! It's worth noting that in 2005, a sacred art exhibition opened to visitors in the Dominican chapel within the Trakai Peninsula Castle. Vytautas the Great Festival Grand Duke Vytautas the Great is undoubtedly one of the most notable and significant symbols of our state. His glorious victory at the Battle of Grunwald, the expansion of the Grand Duchy from the Baltic to the Black Sea, and other achievements hold a very honorable place in the history of the Lithuanian state. Every year on October 27th, the day of Vytautas' death, people are invited to Trakai Island Castle for historical evenings dedicated to the Grand Duke. The Great Hall of the castle commemorates the Grand Duke of Lithuania, who reached an honorable age and strove resolutely for a king's crown. The event also recalls his surroundings, the culture of those times, and other lesser-known topics. Guests of the event are treated to a live music concert.