Lithuania is a country located on the Baltic Sea, with its capital and largest city Vilnius. Vilnius will be the European Capital of Culture in 2009. Lithuania joined the European Union in 2004. Vilnius is a picturesque city that is a large cultural and scientific center, with 8 universities including Vilnius University. It is also a main center of Polish culture and science in Lithuania. Historical places to visit include Trakai Castle and the Hill of Crosses. Traditional Lithuanian foods include cepeliny and Šakotis.