Šeimyniškėliai (Voruta) Hill Fort

Who hasn't heard of Lithuania's first capital – Voruta, the castle seat of King Mindaugas? And although historians and archaeologists still disagree about its exact location, one of the most likely candidates is Šeimyniškėliai Hill Fort in Anykščiai district, right next to the northern boundary of the town of Anykščiai. The theory is strengthened by the fact that a sturdy wooden castle was built here in about the mid-13th century, when the Lithuanian state was taking shape, and that nobody had lived here before. A sizeable settlement from the same period has also been discovered next to the hill fort. It is believed that it was in this very castle that Mindaugas defended himself against his rival, Duke Tautvilas, and the coalition he had assembled, which included Samogitians and Ruthenians from the Principality of Galicia–Volhynia. Mindaugas, meanwhile, was supported by a unit of Livonian Order knights sent to Voruta. These are the events of international importance that this hill, nestled between the Varelis and Volupis streams, most likely remembers. Merchants from the most distant lands, as well as envoys from many countries, could hardly have bypassed such an important place and the settlement next to it. Some of the finest craftsmen of the time must also have gathered here, given work by the nobles and members of the ruler's entourage who lived here or visited often. Climbing the hill fort, which is made up of two parts and is about 12–15 m high, and looking out over the surroundings, you can imagine smoke rising from the settlement's cottages, bustling people, neighing horses, anvils ringing in the smithies and messengers hurrying to the castle with important news. You can also guess where on the hilltop the main castle building stood, in which King Mindaugas himself lived and pondered affairs of state. Šeimyniškėliai is the only fully excavated hill fort in Lithuania, which is why plans have already been drawn up to build a wooden castle on it reflecting the time of Mindaugas. Some of the work has already been done: a wooden bridge has been built over one of the streams, a wooden observation tower has risen next to the hill fort, and a courtyard evoking the Middle Ages has been set up in the outer bailey – all of it intended for educational activities. Here you can learn about the history of the former castle, see a model of the castle and examples of archaeological finds, and buy souvenirs. You can also plunge into a whirl of medieval experiences – test the accuracy of your arm by throwing a spear or shooting a bow, and learn about other features of life at the time. Various historical festivals are celebrated on Šeimyniškėliai Hill Fort, the most important being 6 July – the Coronation Day of King Mindaugas of Lithuania.