<p>Half an hour's drive from Vilnius, Trakai Island Castle is a restored red brick wonder located on an island in Lake Galve. This UNESCO-protected castle complex was the de facto capital of Lithuania during its imperial period when the country formed an empire stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea. The castle features impressive defensive structures and has been meticulously restored to showcase medieval Lithuanian architecture. Connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, the castle offers stunning views from every angle, whether viewed from the village, by kayak, or from a hot air balloon. The castle is also notable for its connection to the Karaites, Crimean Tatars who converted to Karaite Judaism and were brought to Trakai by Grand Duke Vytautas to guard this important fortress after he conquered Crimea in the late 14th century.</p>
