It is said that winter is a magical time of year. It is no coincidence that winter festivals have always been shrouded in mystery and secrets. For example, Christian tradition holds that the first star that appeared in the sky on Christmas Eve showed the three wise men the way to the baby Jesus born in Bethlehem. And in ancient times, the star was believed to awaken sleeping spirits. Traditionally, an empty plate is still left on the festive table for those who have passed away.
Legends, miracles, myths, and stories accompany not only the major festivals of the year but also Vilnius. The city is full of magical places, mystical stories, and tales of forgotten historical figures or events that are reborn anew when they are remembered.
Do you know what the King’s request was fulfilled by the soothsayer Jan Twardowski and what happened to his magic book? What is special about the painting of St. Casimir in Vilnius Cathedral? Whose wrath did the Swedish soldiers who ravaged Vilnius incur?
