Gediminas' Tower
Vilniaus apskritis
Gediminas' Tower is the remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius, located on Gediminas Hill. This Gothic-style tower is a symbol of Lithuania's capital and a significant cultural monument. Originally built in the late 14th or early 15th century, the tower was part of a larger castle complex that served as a residence for Lithuanian Grand Dukes. The castle was constructed using stone and bricks with defensive walls and multiple towers. Over centuries, it underwent several reconstructions, especially after fires and wars. Today, Gediminas' Tower houses a museum showcasing the history of Vilnius and the castle itself, including archaeological findings and historical exhibits. Visitors can climb to the top for a stunning 360° panoramic view of Vilnius, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The tower also features exhibitions related to Lithuanian statehood and the founding of Vilnius, honoring Grand Duke Gediminas, the city's legendary founder.
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Tip: The tower is open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, with last tickets sold 30 minutes before closing. Visitors are advised to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues. There are discounted tickets available for students, seniors, and families, as well as combined tickets for visiting related historical sites. Note that the elevator to the tower is currently not operational, so be prepared for a climb. The best time to visit is during clear weather for optimal views from the observation deck.
Interesting facts
- •Gediminas' Tower is part of the Vilnius Castles Reserve and is considered a symbol of the Lithuanian capital.
- •The tower offers a unique 360° panoramic view of Vilnius from its observation deck.
- •A legend says that Grand Duke Gediminas dreamed of a giant iron wolf howling, which inspired the founding of Vilnius at the tower's location.
- •The tower was restored in 1948-1949 and again in 1995, preserving its Gothic architectural features.
- •Gediminas' Tower is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Vilnius, with over 150,000 visitors annually.
History
Gediminas' Tower was originally constructed in the late 14th or early 15th century as part of Vilnius' Upper Castle.
It was built on Gediminas Hill, which was fortified to protect the city.
The tower and castle were significant residences for Lithuanian Grand Dukes, including Gediminas himself.
In 1419, a fire destroyed the wooden parts of the castle, leading to reconstruction in stronger materials such as stone and brick in Gothic style.
The castle complex was expanded with defensive walls and multiple towers over the centuries.
By the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle was largely destroyed during wars with Russia and was never fully rebuilt.
The western tower was restored in the mid-20th century and now serves as a museum and observation point.
Place Guide
Western Tower (Gediminas' Tower)Late 14th - early 15th century
The main surviving structure of the Upper Castle, featuring Gothic architecture with four floors. The lower part is square-shaped, while the upper part is octagonal. It houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle and Vilnius.
Castle Museum Exhibits
Permanent exhibitions include artifacts from Vilnius' medieval period, archaeological finds from the castle site, and displays about the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the founding of Vilnius.
Gediminas Hill and Surroundings
The hill itself is a natural landmark and historical site, with paths leading up to the tower. It is surrounded by the modern city yet retains historical significance as the original defensive site of Vilnius.
Contact
Phone: (0-5) 261 7453
