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Krakės Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Church of St. Matthew the Evangelist in Krakės is a fine example of Late Renaissance and Baroque ecclesiastical architecture in central Lithuania. The current masonry church was built between 1607 and 1611, replacing an earlier 15th-century wooden structure. The church's history is notably linked to the Order of St. Catherine of Bologna (Clarisse nuns), who established a convent nearby in the 17th century. The building features a single nave with high vaulted ceilings and ornate Baroque interiors. Its altars and pulpit are significant examples of period craftsmanship, reflecting the religious fervor of the time. Krakės was for centuries a vital religious and educational center in the region. Despite the destruction caused by various wars and fires over the years, the church has remained a steadfast landmark of the town, having undergone several restorations to preserve its historical and architectural value.

Location: Lithuania
Nearby: Kėdainiai (20 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-6	-5	0	6	12	16	18	17	12	6	2	-3
Rain mm	55	44	44	45	63	80	93	82	57	69	62	56

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

This central religious building functions as an active house of worship, allowing visitors to appreciate its exterior architecture at any time and view the peaceful interior respectfully during open hours.

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Typical hours

Access to the interior is generally limited to times immediately before, during, or after regular Mass services, usually held on weekends and select weekday mornings.

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Photography

Taking photos of the traditional exterior is highly encouraged, but when venturing inside, remember to refrain from using flash and avoid photographing parishioners during active religious ceremonies.

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Time needed

Most travelers will find that twenty to thirty minutes is completely sufficient to walk around the tranquil church grounds and briefly step inside if the doors are unlocked.

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Combine with

The visit to this local landmark is best paired with a relaxing stroll through the surrounding village streets, giving you a true sense of authentic, slow-paced rural Lithuanian life.

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Getting there

Reaching Krakės is most convenient by personal vehicle as it is situated in a rural area, with straightforward parking available directly in the village center near the church.

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Insider tip

Keep an eye on local community boards or ask around for any upcoming religious festivals or parish fairs, as the church courtyard becomes a spirited center of local culture during these events.

Geography

Coordinates

55.39800, 23.72500

Facts

Built between 1607 and 1611 in a Late Renaissance style
Replaced a wooden church originally founded in 1451
Historically associated with the Clarisse nuns' convent
A single-nave church featuring elaborate Baroque interiors
Krakės was a significant religious hub for several centuries
The church houses valuable historic altars and sacred art

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Krakės1 km · NEExplore →

Dubysa Valley17 km · SWExplore →

Kėdainiai20 km · SEExplore →

Lifosa Phosphate Plant22 km · SEExplore →

Dubysa Escarpment26 km · WExplore →

Baisogala26 km · NExplore →

Middle Lithuanian Lowland28 km · SEExplore →

Krakinava Basilica29 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Krakės Church (1)

Krakių Šv. apaštalo evangelisto Mato bažnyčia

Catholic church in Krakės, dedicated to Saint Matthew the Evangelist, built in the 19th century.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the name of the church in Krakės?

It bears the name of St. Matthew.

When was the current building built?

The current church was completed in 1907.

In what style is it built?

It is built in the Neo-Gothic style from red bricks.

Are visits possible?

Visitors can see the interior mostly before or after mass.

What is the most striking feature?

The high towers are visible from afar in the flat landscape.

Krakės Church: where is it located?

Krakės Church is located in Lithuania.

Krakės Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

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