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Europa Tower
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Europa Tower (Lithuanian: Europos bokštas) is the tallest skyscraper in Baltic States, located in Šnipiškės of Vilnius, Lithuania rising 148 meters above the ground level (129 meters to the roof). It was designed by Vilnius-based Audrius Ambrasas Architects company. Dominating the skyline of the newly developing New City Centre the building was completed and officially opened on the 1st of May 2004 as part of Lithuania's European Union accession events in the capital city. The skyscraper caused some controversy among the public and architects because of its interference with the historic skyline of the old town of Vilnius looking from some popular spots in the old town. However despite these varying opinions the tower is now oftenly regarded as a modern landmark of the Lithuanian capital. Currently there's an observation platform on the open roof terrace at 114m open to the public on Sundays, free of charge.
First publications about the building appeared on the Internet in 2002 as some computer-generated renderings were published on an architectural website. The initial design had 30 floors which was later updated by adding 3 extra floors. Such decision by the architect and developer caused some confrontation with various heritage protection agencies. However, the project was approved by the municipality of Vilnius and was implemented as planned. The construction started in late 2002 and was fully completed by April 2004 becoming the tallest skyscraper in Lithuania and the Baltic States. The project is part of Europa Square complex in the New City Center on the right bank of River Neris.
On September 1, 2006, Alain Robert, known as a Spider-man, climbed Europa Tower along the eastern side facing Europa Square (left of a light stripe seen in the photograph above). Wearing a black suit and using a safety rope he failed to hold at least three times, although he reached the observation deck of the building in 40 minutes.