The city's estimated January population was ,, [ 7 ] and the Vilnius urban area which extends beyond the city limits has an estimated population of , Vilnius is notable for the architecture of its Old Town , considered one of Europe 's largest and best-preserved old towns.
The city was noted for its multicultural population during the Polish—Lithuanian Commonwealth , with contemporary sources comparing it to Babylon. Its Jewish influence has led to its being called "the Jerusalem of Lithuania", and Napoleon called it "the Jerusalem of the North" [ 19 ] when he passed through in In Vilnius was the European Green Capital.
Vilnius' name originates from the river Vilnia , the Lithuanian word for ripple. Wilna is still used in German alongside Vilnius. According to a legend recorded during the c.
The successful wisent hunt lasted longer than expected, and Gediminas decided to spend the night in the valley. He fell asleep and dreamed of a huge Iron Wolf at the top of a hill, howling loudly. Upon awakening, the Duke asked the krivis Lizdeika to interpret the dream.
The chief priest told him:. What is destined for the ruler and the State of Lithuania, is thus: the Iron Wolf represents a castle and a city which will be established by you on this site. This city will be the capital of the Lithuanian lands and the dwelling of their rulers , and the glory of their deeds shall echo throughout the world. He moved his court there, declared it his permanent seat and capital, and developed the surrounding area into a city he named Vilnius.
