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Kaunas Cathedral Basilica

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Kaunas Cathedral Basilica (Lithuania)

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The Kaunas Cathedral, officially the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, is the most significant Catholic sanctuary in the city and the largest Gothic church building in all of Lithuania. Construction of the massive brick church began in the early 15th century, likely around 1413, and lasted for several decades due to wars and financial difficulties. The architecture reflects the transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles, while the interior of the basilica is dominated by magnificent Baroque decorations added after major fires in the 17th century. With a length of 84 meters and a width of 34 meters, the cathedral has an impressive spatial expansiveness. One of the main features inside is the monumental wooden high altar, adorned with numerous sculptures. The cathedral's crypt is the final resting place for prominent figures of Lithuanian history, including the famous national poet Maironis, whose tomb is frequently visited.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-507131619181372-3
Rain mm584546446581998756706057

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica is the largest Gothic church in Lithuania and is open daily for visitors. The interior can be visited for free; respect for services is expected.
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Typical hours
The cathedral typically has long opening hours, often from early morning until evening. Exact times are posted at the entrance; services take place several times daily.
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Photography
Indoor photos are allowed without flash and tripod. During masses, photography is prohibited; ask for permission if you wish to take pictures.
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Time needed
A visit to the cathedral takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Take time to admire the impressive vaults, stained glass, and high altar.
Combine with
The cathedral is located in Kaunas Old Town, near the town hall and pedestrian zone. Combine your visit with a walk down Laisvės alėja and Kaunas Castle.
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Getting there
The cathedral is in central Kaunas, easily reachable on foot from the main train station or bus station. The nearest bus stop is „Rotušė” at the Town Hall Square.
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Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the late afternoon when sunlight streams through the colorful stained glass. Join a guided tour to learn more about the church's history.

Geography

Coordinates
54.89700, 23.88850

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Sights in the town Kaunas Cathedral Basilica (10)

Kauno fotografijos galerija

Photo gallery in Kaunas, showing works by Lithuanian and international artists.

🕒 Tu-Fr 11:00-18:00; Sa-Su 11:00-17:00; PH off💶

Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of apostles St. Peter and St. Paul

Roman Catholic cathedral basilica in Kaunas, Lithuania.

Kauno arkivyskupijos muziejus. Kardinolo V. Sladkevičiaus memorialinis butas-muziejus🏛 museum

Museum of the Kaunas Archdiocese, memorial apartment of Cardinal V. Sladkevičius.

🕒 Tu-Fr 10:00-17:00; Sa 10:00-16:00

Jėzuitų vienuolyno apžvalgos aikštelė

Viewpoint at the Jesuit monastery, overlooking the old town of Kaunas.

Museum of Ceramics🏛 museum

Museum in Kaunas displaying ceramic works.

Town Hall of Kaunas

Historic structure in Kaunas, Lithuania.

Church of Jesuites

Church building in Kaunas, Lithuania.

Kauno evangelikų liuteronų švč. Trejybės bažnyčia

Evangelical Lutheran church in Kaunas, Lithuania.

House of Perkunas🏛 museum

Building in Kaunas, Lithuania.

Kauno pantomimos teatras

Only professional repertory pantomime theatre in Lithuania.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How large is the cathedral?
It is the largest Gothic church in Lithuania.
When was it built?
Construction began around 1412 and continued for centuries.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry is free; donations for maintenance are welcome.
Where is it located?
At Vilniaus g. 1, on the edge of the Town Hall Square in Kaunas.
Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, as long as no service is in progress and without flash.
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica: where is it located?
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica is located in Lithuania.
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kauno fotografijos galerija, Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, Kauno arkivyskupijos muziejus. Kardinolo V. Sladkevičiaus memorialinis butas-muziejus.
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kaunas Cathedral Basilica: why is it worth visiting?
The Kaunas Cathedral, officially the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of apostles St.
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