Straight ahead of you, you’ll spot a wide cobblestone square opening up, with a bold, reddish-orange building proudly facing you. That’s the Klaipėda Drama Theatre, and right in front of it, you’ll see a fountain crowned by a statue. This is the famous Theatre Square, where the heart of Klaipėda’s old town beats!
If you listen closely, you might imagine the music and laughter that fill this square during one of its many festivals-jazz, sea celebrations, and lively markets. Theatre Square has always been the place to gather, trade, and celebrate. Two centuries ago, this would have been a bustling market, smell of fresh bread in the air, traders calling out, and townsfolk hurrying by, baskets in hand.
Now, take a closer look at the fountain. That’s the Anikė statue, a symbol of the city, watching over everyone who visits. She celebrates a famous poem, “Ännchen von Tharau,” by Klaipėda’s own poet Simonas Dach. The original statue disappeared mysteriously during World War II, but she returned in 1989, as if no misadventure could keep her away for long! Maybe she just needed a vacation-can you blame her?
All around the square, the historic buildings in that recognizable old German style add a touch of fairy-tale charm to your walk. And, did you know-a single balcony here once hosted one of the 20th century’s most dramatic political speeches? The whole city seemed to hold its breath!
So, whether you’d like to snap a photo, sit under the shady trees, or just soak up the vibe, Theatre Square is ready to cast you in its story.
