Trakai, the ancient capital of Lithuania, is situated 20 km from Vilnius. Trakai region features unique relief, the combination of numerous unbelievably pure lakes and moraine hills create a breathtaking sight. The town on the water, as Trakai usually called, is particularly rich in architectural and cultural monuments. The main landmark of the town is the famous insular Trakai castle, situated on the island in the Galve Lake. Nowadays it is the only extant insular castle in Eastern Europe.
The town was constructed in the second half of the 14th century and in the 15th -16th centuries it served as the residence of the Grand Duke and his family. In this period both the town and the castle prospered. The noblemen and ambassadors came to Trakai from all over Europe, luxurious feasts were held regularly, legendary treasures were kept in the castle's cellar. By the end of the 16th century, the town had gradually lost its former political importance.