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Church of St. Anne

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Church of St. Anne (Lithuania)

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St. Anne's Church in Vilnius is an unparalleled masterpiece of Late Gothic architecture and a prominent landmark of the Lithuanian capital. Completed around the year 1500, the building is renowned for its intricate main facade, which was constructed using 33 different types of specially shaped clay bricks. Unlike many other historical structures in Vilnius, the exterior of the church has survived almost completely unchanged for the past five centuries. It was originally built next to the Bernardine monastery on the banks of the Vilnia River. A famous legend claims that during his 1812 campaign, Napoleon Bonaparte was so captivated by the church's beauty that he wished he could carry it back to Paris on the palm of his hand. The interior is relatively simple compared to the ornate exterior, consisting of a single nave topped with a net vault.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-7-6-16131619181361-4
Rain mm5243444774771028354685654

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Anne's Church is typically open to visitors during daytime, and you can explore the interior. Access may be limited during services, so it is worth admiring the famous brick facade from the outside as well.
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Typical hours
Churches in Lithuania usually open late morning and close early evening. For precise hours, inquire locally or check the parish's official website.
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Photography
Interior photography is usually allowed without flash, but please ask permission first. The intricate brick facade is well-suited for exterior shots, especially in sunlight.
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Time needed
Allow about 20-30 minutes for the interior visit and facade viewing. If you want to study the church in detail, plan for about 40 minutes.
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Combine with
The church is in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, near the university and Gediminas Tower. Combine your visit with a walk to the cathedral or the Bernardine Garden.
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Getting there
The church is about a 15‑minute walk from Vilnius railway station. Buses 2, 3, and 4 stop nearby at the „Arkikatedra” stop.
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Insider tip
Visit the church early in the morning to enjoy the light on the brick facade and avoid crowds. Legend says Napoleon wanted to take the facade to Paris - that makes for a special photo souvenir.

Geography

Coordinates
54.68300, 25.29340

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Sights in the town Church of St. Anne (10)

St. Anne's Church

Church in Vilnius, a Gothic building with an ornate facade.

♿

Vilnius art academy museum🏛 museum

Museum in Lithuania, part of the Vilnius Academy of Arts.

🕒 Tu-Sa 12:00-18:00♿

Museum of the church legacy🏛 museum

Museum in Lithuania, displaying sacred art and historical items.

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St. Michael the Archangel Church

Church in Lithuania, dedicated to the Archangel Michael.

Art Center of Baltic Amber

Gallery featuring exhibitions on Baltic amber.

Parodu sale ,,Titanikas"

Exhibition hall in Vilnius, venue for contemporary art.

Bernardinų tiltas

Bridge in Vilnius, connecting parts of the old town.

Waterworks History Museum🏛 museum

Museum about the history of water supply in Vilnius.

Menų spaustuvė

Arts centre in Vilnius, former printing house, now a cultural space.

Open Circle

Theatre in Vilnius, venue for modern plays.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What did Napoleon say about this church?
He was so impressed that he said he wanted to carry it to Paris in the palm of his hand.
In what style was it built?
The church is a masterpiece of Brick Gothic architecture from the late 15th century.
How many different types of bricks were used?
A total of 33 different types of bricks were used for the facade.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, entry to the church is free for visitors.
Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, it is generally allowed without flash and without disturbing the worshipers.
Church of St. Anne: where is it located?
Church of St. Anne is located in Lithuania.
Church of St. Anne: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Anne's Church, Vilnius art academy museum, Museum of the church legacy.
Church of St. Anne: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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History & landmarks

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