The new center of Vilnius: spatial transformation and challenges of genius loci

Abstract

In the post-Soviet period, a political decision was taken to relocate Vilnius’ old center to the Neris River’s right bank, thus completing the tortuous and complicated process of urban transformation that began during the 1970s modernization. This article examines the development and evolution of the unsuccessful transformation of the former Vilnius suburb of Šnipiškės into a new representative center of the capital. The authors attempt to clarify how the future problematic identity of the new center has been influenced by the neglect and disregard of the historical spatial development of this part of the city and the genius loci of the heritage of wooden architecture. The new center has not yet acquired a new cultural identity, has not become an attractive place for the city’s residents, and therefore, cannot be considered a successfully created official ‘face’ of the city.