Kernavė Archeological Site

Kernavė Archeological Site
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Kernavė Archeological Site represents an exceptional testimony to some 10 millennia of human settlements in this region. The site is a complex ensemble of archaeological properties, encompassing the town of Kernavė, forts, some unfortified settlements, burial sites and other archaeological, historical and cultural monuments from the late Palaeolithic Period to the Middle Ages.

In later years, the remains of city were covered with an aluvian earth layer, that formed wet peat. It preserved most of the relics intact, and it is a treasure trove for archaeologists, leading some to call Kernavė the "Troy of Lithuania".



Year Decision Comments
2004 Inscribed Reasons for inscription

Reviews

Christer Sundberg (Sweden):
Some 60 km north-west of Vilnius, the archaeological site of Kernave is likely not to be on top of your list of places to visit in Lithuania. And it could probably remain there, unless you are heavily into archaeology – then Kernave is an absolute must.

Kernave had existed since the age of Lithuanian dawn but was completely destroyed by the Teutonic order in the 14th century. So what we can see today is only a number of large mounds - still unexcavated - where underneath lies the remains of hill forts, settlements and numerous burial sites.

My own visit was a fairly short one though I got a thorough explanation of its importance from my guide. But my personal memory of Kernave will always be when climbing the top of one of the mounds, looking out over a stunningly beautiful landscape bathing in sunlight. From its forested hills down to the river in the valley made you realise that whoever choose this location thousands of years ago realised both the strategic as well as the esthetical value of Kernave.
Date posted: August 2006
Jacob Leland (England):
Kernave is a site of amazing natural beauty, despite the fact it is listed as a cultural site. A hike to the top of the massive hill forts is well rewarded with a breathtaking view over the surrounding valley, which seems to have changed very little since the days the forts were first constructed centuries ago.
 


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