Defensive Hillfort
Voruta Hillfort
The presumed castle Voruta of King Mindaugas – one of the most enigmatic historical sites in Lithuania.
Voruta (Šeimyniškėliai) Hillfort is the presumed location of King Mindaugas's castle Voruta, first mentioned in 1251. Mindaugas was the only King of Lithuania, crowned on July 6, 1253 (this date is celebrated as Lithuania's Statehood Day). The hillfort stands on a hill surrounded by marshes and water, which provided natural defense. Archaeological research found a 13th-century cultural layer and remains of defensive fortifications. However, whether this is the true Voruta is still debated among historians. Despite the debate, it is one of the most visited historical sites in the Anykščiai district.