Panevezys, city in north central Lithuania, capital of Panevezio Region, located on the Nevezis River about 100 km (about 60 mi) north of Kaunas. The city is one of Lithuania's leading industrial centers. Its manufactures include machinery, electronics, textiles, ceramics, glassware, shoes, and furniture. Panevezys lies in an agricultural region and has a significant food-processing industry. The city is served by both roads and railroads. One of Lithuania's leading theaters is located in Panevezys.
The city was founded in the 16th century on the trade route between Vilnius and Riga. In 1795 the town became part of the Russian Empire; in 1918 it returned to Lithuania. During World War II (1939-1945) Panevezys was occupied first by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) and then by Germany. In 1944, as the Soviets again advanced on the city, heavy fighting against the retreating Germans nearly destroyed it. From World War II until Lithuania became independent in 1991, Panevezys was a part of the Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic of the USSR. Population (2000 estimate) 133,700.
