Kaunas Castle
Kauno apskritis
Kaunas Castle, located in Lithuania's second-largest city Kaunas, is one of the oldest surviving brick castles in the country. Constructed in the mid-14th century in the Gothic style, it was strategically positioned on a rise by the Nemunas and Neris rivers' confluence to guard trade routes and defend the state. The castle endured significant sieges, notably in 1362 when the Teutonic Knights besieged and captured it after a three-week assault, inflicting heavy casualties on the Lithuanian defenders. Rebuilt and strengthened after the siege, the castle evolved into a residence and administrative center, hosting prominent figures such as Vytautas the Great and Władysław II Jagiełło. Architecturally, it featured thick walls up to 3.5 meters and four towers, including rounded and quadrangular ones, adapted to withstand contemporary warfare technologies. Today, roughly one-third of the original structure remains, serving as a museum branch that offers visitors insights into medieval Lithuanian history and architecture. The castle's historical significance and riverside setting make it a unique cultural landmark in Lithuania.
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Tip: Visitors should consider coming during weekdays from Tuesday to Friday between 10:00 and 18:00, or on Saturdays and Sundays with slightly shorter hours in summer. It's advisable to purchase tickets at the museum's ticket office at least 30 minutes before closing. Larger groups with children need to register in advance and book guided tours or educational programs. Free and discounted admissions are available for various groups, including children, seniors, students, and persons with disabilities, upon presenting relevant documents. Visiting on the last Sunday of each month during summer or on Lithuanian national holidays can offer free entry. Planning ahead for these times can enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •The castle was besieged in 1362 by the Teutonic Knights using siege towers and possibly primitive firearms, marking one of the early uses of gunpowder technology in Europe.
- •Only 36 of the original 400 Lithuanian defenders survived the 1362 siege, highlighting the battle's severity.
- •The castle was renamed Marienwerder by the Teutonic Knights after their 1384 capture.
- •Vytautas the Great frequently stayed at the castle, and Władysław II Jagiełło held gatherings there.
- •A memorial bust of Prince Vaidotas, the castle's defender in 1362, was unveiled in 2008 along with a commemorative silver coin released by Lithuania.
History
Kaunas Castle was likely built in the mid-14th century by German master builders as one of Lithuania's earliest brick fortifications.
It played a crucial strategic role guarding the state against the Teutonic Knights.
In 1362, it was besieged and captured by the Knights after a prolonged assault.
The Lithuanians soon rebuilt and reinforced the castle, which later served as a residence and administrative hub.
Throughout the late 14th and early 15th centuries, it was contested between Lithuanians and the Teutonic Order, with significant reconstructions enhancing its defenses.
After the Battle of Grunwald, the castle's military importance declined, transitioning to administrative functions within Kaunas Powiat.
Place Guide
South-Eastern Tower14th century
A four-storey rounded tower that was part of the castle's fortifications, serving defensive and residential purposes in the later period.
South-Western Tower14th century
A four-storey quadrangular tower, integral to the castle's defense system, notable for its height and robust construction.
Castle WallsPost-1398
Thick stone walls up to 3.5 meters thick and over 10 meters high, reinforced after 1398 to withstand the latest siege technologies of the time.
Castle Courtyard14th century
An enclosed yard of approximately 5200 square meters, surrounded by the castle walls and towers, serving as the core area of the fortress.
Contact
Phone: (0-687) 55263
