Historic Old Towns The medieval Old Towns of the three Capitals are included on UNESCO’s world heritage list, and are among the many attractions for film makers.   Tallin, the northernmost capital is a mix of winding cobblestone streets, church spires and pewter coloured turrets. Riga, is the biggest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals. Its skyline reflects the rich diversity of an eclectic architectural past. Vilnius, the southernmost capital, where the influence of a Polish past gives its Old Town a unique character. The Old Town is also the largest in Eastern Europe and is often praised as ‘the new Prague’.   Modern Urban Centres Since independence from the former USSR, the Baltic region has seen enormous economic growth and stability.  Inward investment from global business has seen the centres of many of the major cities change beyond recognition, with the construction of new modern buildings and business centres.   Castles and Palaces During its turbulent history, the region has had many rulers, German, Danish, Polish, Swedish and Russian, all of whom have left behind fortified buildings and estates combining the architectural style of their time with the local characteristics.   Lakes and Wetlands Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania between them have over 6000 lakes.  The largest  being Lake Peipsi  at 3555 sq km which straddles the Estonian-Russian border.  Wetlands account for about 10% of the combined land mass.   Ports and Coastline From its most southernly point, the Curonian Spit in Lithuania, to the northern islands of Estonia, the Baltic coastline is some 4424 km long.  It consists of vast stretches of dunes and sandy beaches intersperced with wetlands and the occasional cliff.   The coastal regions have historically been of great importance giving access to trade through busy ports such as Klaipeda, Riga, whilst also providing strategic naval bases of the former Soviet Union.   Forests Large portions of the region are forested, covering about 40% of the territory.  Pine and Birch are the most common trees, however Oak, Fir and Maple can also be found.