Aviation bomb fuses, artillery shells, and rocket-propelled grenades have been discovered at a central construction site in Klaipėda, Lithuania's largest port city, as preparatory works continue at Atgimimo Square.
The site, riddled with unexploded ordnance dating back to World War Two, has become Klaipėda’s most hazardous location amid the ongoing reconstruction, reports Klaipėda's Vakarų Ekspresas.
According to municipal authorities, a two-kilogramme aviation bomb fuse was found on July 4. Four days later, emergency services were called twice after the discovery of several more rounds.
On July 9, three more rocket-propelled grenades were unearthed.
All munitions have been safely transported and destroyed at the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ Kairiai training ground.
Construction at the square is closely monitored by a military-appointed specialist who responds to any alerts, making decisions on whether to pause work or activate Lithuania’s emergency ordnance protocol, known as Planas Skydas (Shield Plan).
Geodetic measurements and site boundary markings were completed on June 25. From 26 June onwards, contractors have been clearing accumulated soil and construction debris.
On July 2, workers began removing asphalt from a section of Herkaus Manto Street to allow for the installation of underground utilities. The removal revealed a stone pavement, prompting social media speculation that it could be part of the historic Biržos Street, one of Klaipėda’s oldest streets.
However, archaeologists, contractors, and military personnel on-site confirmed the pavement dates from the Soviet era and has no historical significance. It is unrelated to the original Biržos Street cobblestones.
The paving stones are currently being stored and may be reused for future development projects within the city.
Archaeological investigations officially began on July 4 in collaboration with contractors and armed forces personnel to ensure the safety and smooth progress.
The main construction work is being undertaken by the company Vaidva, with archaeological research led by Statybų archeologija.
As previously reported by BNS, Klaipėda’s municipality signed a €1.33 million contract on June 18 with the aforementioned firms for site preparation and clearance.
Reconstruction work at Atgimimo Square was previously halted in October 2024 after 27 explosive devices were discovered during earlier archaeological surveys.
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