Vilnius has a neighborhood called Uzupis, a district popular with artists and other quirky people. In 1997 the district declared itself an independent republic with its own constitution, which includes amongst its 38 articles that everyone has a right to hot water and heating, a dog has a right to be a dog, and that “a cat is not obliged to love its owner, but must help in time of need.” You could even stamp your own passport when you cross into Uzupis.





















