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Pakruojis Synagogue

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Pakruojis Synagogue (Lithuania)

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The Pakruojis Synagogue is a unique architectural monument and is recognized as the oldest surviving wooden synagogue in Lithuania. Built in 1801, it is a rare example of the integration of Baroque and Neoclassical elements in Eastern European Jewish wooden architecture. The building's exterior features a distinctive two-tiered roof, while its interior was once richly decorated with wall paintings and intricate wood carvings. During the Soviet era, the building was repurposed as a cinema and a warehouse, which ironically contributed to its survival while many other wooden synagogues were destroyed. Between 2016 and 2017, the synagogue underwent a comprehensive and faithful restoration, uncovering fragments of its original historical murals. Today, the building functions as a cultural center and museum, serving as a poignant reminder of the region's rich Jewish heritage and Lithuania's diverse multicultural history.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-506121518171262-3
Rain mm504041435776867854656252

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Pakruojis Synagogue can only be visited from the outside. The interior is currently not open to the public.
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Typical hours
Since the building is not open, there are no visiting hours. The exterior can be viewed at any time.
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Photography
Exterior photography is allowed without restrictions. The building is an important architectural monument of Jewish culture.
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Time needed
A visit for the exterior takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It's worth admiring the richness of details on the facade.
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Combine with
Combine the synagogue with a visit to the nearby Pakruojis Manor. The town's market square also provides a nice setting.
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Getting there
The synagogue is located in the center of Pakruojis, walkable from the market square. Parking is available near the manor.
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Insider tip
Inquire at the tourism office about possible occasional guided tours. The synagogue is a silent witness of the thriving Jewish community before the Holocaust.

Geography

Coordinates
55.97800, 23.85600

Facts

  • Built in the year 1801
  • Oldest surviving wooden synagogue in Lithuania
  • Fully restored between 2016 and 2017
  • Repurposed as a cinema during the Soviet era
  • Features a mix of Baroque and Neoclassical styles
  • Currently serves as a museum and cultural hub

Explore nearby

Notable places around

PakruojisPakruojis1 km · SEExplore →
Pakruojis areaPakruojis area2 km · SWExplore →
Pakruojis ManorPakruojis Manor2 km · NEExplore →
Linkuva Hill RidgeLinkuva Hill Ridge15 km · NEExplore →
JoniškėlisJoniškėlis19 km · EExplore →
Linkuva RidgeLinkuva Ridge20 km · NEExplore →
Šeduva ChurchŠeduva Church26 km · SExplore →
Jebel HafeetJebel Hafeet26 km · SEExplore →

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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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Pakruojis Synagogue (10)

Pakruojo Šv. Jono Krikštytojo bažnyčia

Catholic church in Pakruojis, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist.

Profesoriaus Stasio Ušinsko memorialinis kambarys🏛 museum

Memorial room for Professor Stasys Ušinskas in Pakruojis.

Pakruojo kultūros centras

Cultural center in Pakruojis, hosting concerts and exhibitions.

Pakruojo kapinių koplyčia

Chapel in the cemetery of Pakruojis.

Sigutėnų vėjo malūnas

Windmill in Sigutėnai near Pakruojis.

Pakruojo dvaro rūmai🏛 museum

Manor house of the Pakruojis estate, now a museum.

Pakruojo dvaras

Historic estate in Pakruojis, a Lithuanian architectural site.

Pakruojo dvaro tiltas

Bridge on the grounds of the Pakruojis estate.

Griuvėsiai

Ruins in Pakruojis, remnants of a building.

Vėjo malūno kino teatras

Cinema in a former windmill in Pakruojis.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Pakruojis synagogue?
It is the oldest surviving wooden synagogue in Lithuania.
When was it built?
It was built in 1801.
Has the synagogue been restored?
Yes, it has recently been fully restored and is open to visitors.
What can you see inside?
You can admire the impressive wooden architecture and wall paintings.
Is there a museum there?
Today it serves as a cultural center and exhibition space.
Pakruojis Synagogue: where is it located?
Pakruojis Synagogue is located in Lithuania.
Pakruojis Synagogue: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pakruojo Šv. Jono Krikštytojo bažnyčia, Profesoriaus Stasio Ušinsko memorialinis kambarys, Pakruojo kultūros centras.
Pakruojis Synagogue: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Pakruojis Synagogue: why is it worth visiting?
The Pakruojis Synagogue is a unique architectural monument and is recognized as the oldest surviving wooden synagogue in Lithuania.
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History & landmarks

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