Tauragė Castle
Tauragės apskritis
Tauragė Castle, built between 1844 and 1847, is a distinctive 19th-century masonry structure located in the town of Tauragė near Lithuania's Baltic Coast. Initially constructed as a customs building following a devastating fire in 1836, the castle also functioned as a prison for smugglers and illegal immigrants. Over time, the complex expanded to include auxiliary buildings such as a bathhouse, sauna, water well, and stone walls with corner towers. Throughout the 20th century, the castle served multiple purposes including a psychiatric hospital, military barracks, county hospital, commerce school, middle school, and a restaurant. Today, Tauragė Castle is a cultural center housing a museum and a children's library, and it regularly hosts exhibitions, events, and celebrations, making it a lively attraction that connects visitors with the town's rich history and community life.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the castle's schedule for exhibitions and events to enhance their experience. The best time to visit is during local celebrations or cultural events held at the castle. Booking ahead may be beneficial for group visits or special events. The castle is accessible year-round, and visitors can enjoy the adjacent park area for relaxation.
Interesting facts
- •The castle was originally built as a customs house following a devastating fire in Tauragė in 1836.
- •The building also served as a prison for smugglers and illegal immigrants in the 19th century.
- •The compound includes a stone wall with corner towers added in the late 19th century.
- •Throughout the 20th century, the castle housed diverse institutions including a psychiatric hospital and military barracks.
- •Today, it functions as a museum and children's library hosting various cultural events.
History
The construction of Tauragė Castle was initiated after a major fire devastated the town of Tauragė in 1836, prompting Tsarist authorities to redesign the city including a new customs building.
Completed in 1847, the two-story masonry structure initially served customs purposes and detention for smugglers.
In the late 19th century, the complex was expanded with auxiliary facilities and defensive walls.
Throughout the 20th century, the castle's function evolved, hosting various institutions such as hospitals, military barracks, and schools.
The castle has been preserved and repurposed into a cultural site with a museum and library in modern times.
Place Guide
Main Castle Building1844-1847
The original two-story masonry structure built between 1844 and 1847, showcasing 19th-century architecture and its historical role as a customs house and prison.
Stone Wall and Corner TowersLate 19th century
Added in the late 19th century, these defensive structures surround the castle compound, reflecting its expanded role and architectural evolution.
Auxiliary Buildings ComplexLate 19th century
Includes the bathhouse, sauna, and water well constructed in the late 19th century to support the castle's operations and inhabitants.
Museum and Children's LibraryModern era
Modern cultural facilities within the castle offering exhibitions, educational programs, and events for visitors of all ages.
Castle Park
The adjacent park area offers visitors a pleasant outdoor space for relaxation and complements the historic castle setting.
Contact
Phone: (0-601) 04444
