Vilnius, Lithuania (pronounced Vil-Noos) is the capital and largest city with a population of approximately 540,000. It is the capital city of Vilnius city municipality and of the Vilnius district municipality. During World War II, about 95 percent of the Jewish population of 265,000 of Lithuania was murdered by the German and Lithuanian units. Vilnius has been transforming itself to erase its Soviet past and to shine as a modern Western European city. Many of the old buildings have been renovated, and there are new business and commercial areas being developed. The architecture in Vilnius is diverse, with more than 40 churches to visit. In addition, there are restaurants, hotels, and museums. Since Lithuania declared independence, the younger residents are providing a reputation for being the most hospitable in the world. As in all other medieval towns, Vilnius has developed around its Town Hall. There are places of lords and landlords, churches, shops, and craft studios