“A cat is not obliged to love its owner, but must help in time of need.”

Article 13 from The Užupis Constitution… Seriously.

This 'micro-nation' in the centre of Vilnius gave Soviet conformity the finger and now laughs at ‘serious’ politics.

A bohemian utopia of artist’s workshops, micro-breweries and DIY cafes, it was declared an independent state (by its residents) on April Fool’s Day 1997.

It’s not recognised by any government anywhere, because nobody’s sure if it’s all just a prank. There's 7000 people in on it though.

They’ve elected a president and a cabinet of ministers, have their own currency and flag, and even an army… of 11 people. Seems legit.

But then there’s the constitution. Written on a public wall in 23 languages, it says some weird shit.

Article 3: ‘Everyone has the right to die, but this is not an obligation.’

Article 12: ‘A dog has the right to be a dog.’

Article 39: ‘Everyone has the right to have no rights.’

Ok then.

Whatever it’s trying to do (some sort of arty-lefty-anarchism?) it’s a lot of fun. They have festivals, street parties and year round open art exhibitions... not to mention their own fortress.