Lithuanian army marks Orsha victory anniversary in Vilnius

The Lithuanian army on Tuesday marked the 512th anniversary of the victory in the Battle of Orsha in Vilnius, LRT reported.

Residents and visitors were invited to watch a symbolic triumphal procession honouring Konstanty Ostrogski, the Grand Hetman of Lithuania, the army said.

The procession included soldiers from the Honour Guard Company, the Lithuanian army band, schoolchildren and their teachers, as well as members of the medieval club Viduramžių pasiuntiniai portraying historical figures.

Participants gathered at noon at the Gate of Dawn. Historical sources say triumphal processions were held in Vilnius to mark the Battle of Orsha, fought on September 8, 1514.

After reaching the monument to Gediminas in Cathedral Square, the participants staged a re-enactment of the battle. The historical flag of Lithuania was then raised above the Palace of the Grand Dukes, and the national anthem was performed.

After the ceremony, military historian Karolis Zikaras and comedian Kristoforas Vaidutis discussed the significance and historical circumstances of the Battle of Orsha.

Historical sources say prisoners, trophies, weapons and gold were displayed to residents during the triumphal processions, while captured enemy flags were hung in Vilnius Cathedral.

The victory is said to have been comparable in scale to the Battle of Grunwald because it halted the strengthening aggression of Moscow and its advance into the territory of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.