The National Museum – Palace of Grand Dukes of Lithuania was opened in 2013. It is located directly in the historical center of Vilnius and is a part of the former building complex of the Grand Ducal Palace of Lithuania. Click the cursor around to explore a truly magnificent view!

The museum collects, preserves, researches, and promotes those cultural, artistic, historical and archaeological artifacts that demonstrate the historical and cultural heritage of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania in the Lower Castle of Vilnius.

The museum also oversees the restoration and public display of the palace interiors. It hosts events organized by the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania and other institutions. The activities of the museum promote openness and dissemination of Lithuanian culture abroad.

The exhibitions reveal the development of the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania in an historical context – from ancient times to the current reconstruction of the palace.

The most valuable part of these exhibitions are the authentic ruins in the cellars and the unique archaeological finds displayed there.

Here, visitors can see the surviving authentic walls from various periods as well as the rich collection of unique archaeological artifacts.

Exhibitions also guides us through the evolution of the different stylistic eras of the palace and the historical functions of various rooms. We hope to capture the spirit of palace life and the functioning of the state.

In this part of the exposition visitors can become acquainted  with the stylistic development of the residence of the Lithuanian grand dukes through the Late Gothic, Renaissance and Early Baroque epochs.

In these spaces one will find authentic furniture, tapestries, paintings, maps and other treasures that are characteristic of European palace interiors. 

Here, visitors can look into the rulers' representational and utility spaces, their private apartments, the treasury, and upon rising up to the Observation Tower breath-taking panoramas over the capital city unfold before you.

While exploring the palace, you may stumble across this beautiful spot. Enjoy the Renaissance-era type of garden with all it's smells - herbs and decorative plants found here would have been grown in the 16th century! Feel like a royalty while enjoying rays of sunshine.

The Palace is always full of events - join in on educational activities, enjoy a concert or a play,  find what most interests you in our calendar here.

Photograph from an even – visual interpretation of history called „Aktas. Istorinės tapatybės beieškant“ (Eng. „Act. In Search of Historical Identity“). This event was part of celebration of Restoration of Independence of Lithuania.

Representative state events, receptions for foreign guests, reward ceremonies, conferences are frequently organized in the Palace, premises can also be rented for events, find more information about it here.

Photograph from Old Music Festival “Baroque Evenings”, organized by French Institute in Lithuania and National Museum - Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania with partners.

Vilnius Old Town is full of legends and stories. Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is no exception. During the Museum Night visitors were invited to open the gates of mysterious legends of Lithuanian history.

Born in 1939 in Kluoniškiai Antanas Sutkus is an iconic Lithuanian photographer.

In 1980 Sutkus was awarded the name of Honored Culture Worker of Lithuania, in 1997 he was decorated with the Order of the Grand Duke Gediminas of the 4th degree. Many more awards and recognitions followed.

It's important to point out that his birthplace contributed to his deep connection with the Lithuanian landscape, and people, which we can so well see in his photographic work.

He gained prominence mostly for his black and white photographs presenting the lives of ordinary people (but also of important historical events).

In 2003 received the National Premium for Art. In 2006 was decorated with the Golden Cross of the President of Poland. In 2009 was decorated with the the Honour sign “Lithuanian Millennium Star”.

He also portrayed everyday moments during the Soviet era in Lithuania.

The photograph was taken in 1978 during summer in Salakas. Salakas is located in northeastern Lithuania and has a population of around 500 inhabitants. ​Rural Lithuania is home to traditional villages that present the country's traditional rural culture.

The countryside hosts traditional festivals and celebrations that highlight rural traditions, folklore, and local crafts. These often include traditional music, dance show, or craft demonstrations.

Here comes a selection of photographs taken by Antanas Sutkus during 50 years in Lithuania. Enjoy the ride!

Lithuanian countryside is home to several nature reserves and national parks that protect the country's diverse flora and fauna. Places like Aukštaitija National Park, Žemaitija National Park, and Dzūkija National Park offer opportunities for outdoor activities.

Lithuania's winter landscape can get very beautiful, especially around December, with its festive atmosphere. Snow-covered landscape and frozen lakes are a common sight.

Christmas in Lithuania is a special time, celebrated with various traditions. The main Christmas Eve meal is called "Kūčios". Families gather together for a traditional supper of 12 meatless dishes, symbolising the 12 apostles. It's also a custom to decorate a Christmas Tree.

Winter is also a great time for winter activities such as cross-country skiing, coupled with warm traditional food.

Spring in Lithuania is the moment of transformation and renewal as the country emerges from the cold winter and plants start to grow again.