Lithuania is one of the three Baltic States, along with Latvia and Estonia, that were part of the Soviet Union from 1940-1990. The capital and largest city is Vilnius. Lithuania has a population of around 2.8 million people. The official language is Lithuanian, and the country has been a member of the European Union since 2004. Lithuanian is one of the oldest languages in Europe, and the only Baltic language that is still in use. Lithuania is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and rivers, as well as its rich cultural heritage. Lithuania is the only country in the world with its own official scent, called the "Scent of Lithuania". Lithuania is home to the Hill of Crosses, a pilgrimage site that is said to have over 100,000 crosses. The economy of Lithuania is based primarily on agriculture and services, with a growing focus on technology and innovation. Lithuania is also known for its rich culture, including traditional folk music and dance.