One of the most valuable – and available -- resources uncovered for this exploration into the Italian influence on Lithuania is a a small volume, The Castles of Vilnius: Guidebook. It was written by Kazys Almenas for The Castle Society, published in 2002, and available in bookshops (and at the Castle Renovation) for about the price of a plate of pasta.

It is full of interesting trivia, such as the fact that in 1253, King Mindaugas received a royal crown from the Pope for leading the people under his broad domain toward Christianity; and the fact that the pagan society was not impressed and killed Mindaugas and his entire family a decade later. As a result, Lithuania required a second conversion, which occurred when “…the pagan ruler Jogaila was offered the Polish crown and a child-bride to be his queen as an inducement to accept Christianity. He accepted the offer and Lithuania … was once again baptised in 1387.”

In short, the Guidebook presents the history of the Castle and its immediate surroundings in a succinct and highly readable style. But equally impressive are the photographs, drawings, maps, and directions to sites that make the Guidebook invaluable for both locals and visitors. In fact, it might be the single best promotional piece for Vilnius tourism and as a souvenir for visitors.

Italian architects were involved in the rebuilding of the Castle in the 1520s, invited by Queen Bona Sforca. That influential Italian queen is largely responsible for the rise of Western-style social life that included fancy balls, tournaments, and hunting parties that created the basis for the wealthy to evolve an extravagant round of entertainments that closely resembled courtly societies in Rome and Florence. Buy this book! Available at bookstores and from the Royal Palace Restoration Foundation, which receives a portion of revenues from book sales. Contact fondas@lvr.lt