The National Museum of Lithuania holds an extensive collection of Lithuanian cultural heritage items, displayed within several historically significant sites across Vilnius. Browse through exhibits of history, archaeology and ethnography within the Vilnius Castle Complex, ancient fortifications, historic homesteads and elegant administrative buildings. Founded as the Vilnius Museum of Antiquities in 1855, the National Museum of Lithuania now has a collection of over 800,000 items, including relics from the Stone Age, medieval monuments and folk art items.
Find the main museum complex within the New Arsenal and Old Arsenal buildings at the foot of Castle Hill. In the New Arsenal, learn about the museum’s beginnings during the mid-19th century and gain a fascinating insight into Lithuania’s history from the 13th until the 19th century. Learn about the nation’s formation and customs, including folk art, peasant lifestyle and heritage handicrafts, such as the forging of crosses.
Visit the Old Arsenal to roam the halls of Vilnius Lower Castle where there are exhibits of archaeological findings from the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. See ancient pottery, tools and a reconstruction of a Mesolithic priest’s tomb. Learn about the history of Baltic culture and the ethnography of the region that became the established state of Lithuania.
Climb the steep hill or catch the funicular railway up to Gediminas Castle Tower, a remnant of an ancient fortification marking the birthplace of Vilnius. Browse through the museum within the restored tower and see an extensive panorama of the city from the upper floor.
Throughout the city, you’ll also find museum locations at the House of Signatories, Vincas Kurdika Museum, Jonas Sliupas Memorial Homestead and Jonas Basanavicius Birthplace. At the Kazys Varnelis House-Museum, admire the paintings and engravings of the modern master for free. Check out the Bastion of the Vilnius Defensive Wall to see the restoration of the original Renaissance-style fortification.
There is an admission fee to access the museum’s main building and satellite locations. Fees are waived with the Vilnius City Card. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
