The Vilnius Stories project, which has been telling fascinating stories about Vilnius in the times of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, is back, updated, and offers the opportunity to learn more about the city through a virtual reality experience. Vilnius University (VU) invites you to explore the undiscovered spaces of old Vilnius and try on the VR glasses in a special environment – St. Johns' Church Bell Tower.

"We undertook this project for two reasons: we want to meet the upcoming 700th anniversary of Vilnius and, at the same time, it is our consistent work aiming to increase the popularity of history. A few years ago, we implemented the Orbis Lituaniae project, during which we wrote 800 online stories about the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Then the idea of extending these narratives in new forms was born, and we realised that historians should cooperate with creators and animators. We want to prove by example that quality education and attractive content are compatible," says VU Rector Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas.

The recently updated www.ldkistorija.lt website now offers a wealth of relevant content for scholars and history enthusiasts alike. Once you visit the website, you can discover Vilnius and its history in a variety of ways and formats by exploring maps with GIS drawings prepared especially for the city of Vilnius, or by browsing the pages of the digitised Lithuanian Metrica. Yet one of the most exciting opportunities offered by the project is to get to know the city by immersing yourself in virtual reality. Through VR glasses you can learn 5 unique stories about the legend of the founding of Vilnius, about Vilnius University, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Jewish Quarter and the city's festivals

The VR point is located within the VU architectural ensemble, in St. Johns' Church Bell Tower. Pre-registration is required.

The website updated in the framework of the project "The Gates of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania" (www.ldkistorija.lt). Project implemented by Vilnius University. Project implemented by UAB Orbitis, UAB Okta and partners. Project partners: Lithuanian Institute of History, Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania, National Museum of Lithuania and other organisations.