Kronika

Abstract

Kaunas is a very important scientific, cultural and industrial centre of Lithuania. Its geographical and defensive position is highly positive as Kaunas is situated on the Nemunas and Neris confluence. Kaunas was supposed to be founded in 1030, but archeological excavations of the castle in 1954–1961 confirmed that people had lived there in the IV—V centuries.The investigation of the development of Kaunas was based on historical data.The author draws some new conclusions based on archeological data analysis of the old town, geological borings, metrological investigations and analogy as well as on the work of other scientists.Kaunas must have been formed of at least two independently existing settlements in the IV—V centuries. Setllement A developed on the territory of the future castle near the Neris, later on its structure became radial with the square of trapezium shape. Another settlement B developed 300–400 m to the East o the Nemunas bank.When these settlements joined a „long market” square was formed near the great Vilnius road. In the XIV—XV century a new group of blocks (quarters) C of rectangular form was planned by the module method (module—Flemish rope—51,6 m). Group C had a square of 2×3 Flemish ropes. In the XV century a brick Town Hall was built in the square and a new one was contructed in 1542. The square was surrounded by brick dwelling houses. This new part of Kaunas C has become the centre of the town and its position has been dominating up to now.Quarter C planned in rectuangular form was the first example of planned towns in Lithuania. It was similar to the towns built at that time by our Southern and Western neighbours.©1968 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.