Last Updated on 28 January 2026 by Johan
St. Casimir’s Church stands as one of the most distinctive landmarks in Vilnius Old Town. Its elegant Baroque façade, crowned by a unique royal dome, rises above Didžioji Street and reflects more than four centuries of religious, cultural, and architectural history. Built by the Jesuits between 1604 and 1618, the church was dedicated to Saint Casimir, the patron saint of Lithuania. Today, it remains one of the most important Baroque monuments in the country and a key destination for visitors exploring Vilnius.
This expanded guide provides a detailed, up‑to‑date overview of the church’s history, architecture, Jesuit heritage, and practical information for tourists.
Historical Background St. Casimir’s Church
Origins and Jesuit Foundation
Construction of St. Casimir’s Church began in 1604, shortly after the canonization of Saint Casimir in 1602. The Jesuits, who were rapidly expanding their educational and religious influence in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, initiated the project with the support of Lithuanian Chancellor Leonas Sapiega. The church was modeled after the Church of the Gesù in Rome, the mother church of the Jesuit order, making it the first Baroque church in Lithuania.
The adjoining Jesuit monastery was built between 1604 and 1615. It served as a residence for Jesuit scholars, priests, and administrators, and included a library and hospital. The monastery later became home to the first Lithuanian gymnasium in Vilnius during the early 20th century.
Transformations Through the Centuries
St. Casimir’s Church has undergone several significant transformations:
- 18th‑century reconstruction: A major renovation in the mid‑1700s added the church’s most recognizable feature: its large, multi‑tiered dome topped with a royal crown. This dome remains unique in the former territories of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
- Napoleonic period: In 1812, Napoleon’s army used the church as a grain storehouse, causing damage to the interior.
- Russian Imperial rule: After the 1830–1831 uprising, the church was converted into an Orthodox church. Between 1864 and 1868, architect Nikolai Chagin redesigned the interior to fit Orthodox liturgical needs.
- Return to Catholicism: In 1917, during World War I, the church was returned to the Catholic community.
- Soviet era: After World War II, the church was closed and in 1961 repurposed as the Museum of Atheism.
- Restoration of religious function: Following Lithuania’s independence movement, the church was restored to the Catholic Church and reopened for worship.
These layers of history make St. Casimir’s Church a rare example of a building that has served multiple religious and political regimes while retaining its architectural identity.
Architectural Features St. Casimir’s Church
Exterior St. Casimir’s Church
The church’s façade is a classic example of early Baroque architecture, inspired by Italian models but adapted to local traditions. Its soft pastel colors, sculptural details, and balanced proportions contribute to its harmonious appearance.
The royal crown atop the dome symbolizes Saint Casimir’s royal lineage as the son of the Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland. This crown is one of the most recognizable architectural symbols in Vilnius.
Interior St. Casimir’s Church
The interior of St. Casimir’s Church is known for its refined spatial composition and ornate decoration. Key features include:
- Three late Baroque altars created between 1749 and 1755 by Tomasz Žebrauskas, a prominent Jesuit architect and artist.
- Artificial marble altars and paintings by Lithuanian artist Antanas Kmieliauskas, including depictions of The Resurrection of Christ, St. Casimir, St. Andrew Bobola, and St. Ignatius Loyola.
- 17th‑century frescoes preserved in the basement, offering a rare glimpse into early Baroque religious art in Lithuania.
- Crypt beneath the altar, discovered in 1991, containing unique wall drawings and believed to have served as a burial place for Jesuits and benefactors.
The interior’s combination of Baroque ornamentation, Jesuit symbolism, and later artistic additions creates a rich and layered visual experience.
The Jesuit Monastery
The Jesuit monastery adjacent to the church played a central role in the religious and intellectual life of Vilnius. As the headquarters of the Lithuanian Jesuit Province, it housed monks who had completed their full formation and taken solemn vows, including the distinctive Jesuit vow of obedience to the Pope.
The monastery complex historically included:
- Residential quarters
- A library
- A hospital
- Administrative offices for the Jesuit province
In the early 20th century, the buildings hosted the first Lithuanian gymnasium in Vilnius, contributing to the development of Lithuanian education and culture.
Today, parts of the former monastery are used for educational and cultural purposes, though the complex is not fully open to the public.
Saint Casimir: Patron of Lithuania
Saint Casimir (1458–1484) was a prince of the Jagiellonian dynasty known for his piety, charity, and devotion to the poor. He died at the age of 25, likely from tuberculosis, and was buried in Vilnius Cathedral. His canonization in 1602 strengthened his role as a symbol of Lithuanian identity and spiritual heritage.
St. Casimir’s Church was built to honor his memory and remains one of the most important sites dedicated to him in Lithuania.
Visiting St. Casimir’s Church
Location St. Casimir’s Church
Address: Didžioji g. 34, Vilnius 01128, Lithuania
The church is located in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it easy to combine with visits to Town Hall Square, Pilies Street, and other major attractions.
Opening Hours St. Casimir’s Church
Opening hours may vary depending on liturgical schedules and events. Visitors can typically enter during daytime hours, but it is advisable to check the latest information through official tourism channels before visiting.
Admission St. Casimir’s Church
Entrance to the church is generally free, though donations are appreciated to support maintenance and restoration.
What to See
Visitors should not miss:
- The royal crown atop the dome
- The three Baroque altars
- The crypt beneath the main altar (access may be limited)
- Surviving 17th‑century frescoes
- The church’s acoustics, which make it a popular venue for sacred music concerts
Photography
Photography is usually permitted, but visitors should be respectful during services and avoid flash photography.
Tips for Tourists
Combine With Nearby Attractions
St. Casimir’s Church is ideally located for a walking tour of Vilnius Old Town. Nearby highlights include:
- Vilnius Town Hall
- St. Anne’s Church
- Vilnius University ensemble
- The Gate of Dawn
- Pilies Street cafés and artisan shops
Best Time to Visit
The church is particularly beautiful in the morning when sunlight illuminates the façade. For a quieter experience, visit outside of mass times.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of Vilnius often include St. Casimir’s Church. For deeper insight into Jesuit history and Baroque architecture, consider joining a specialized architectural or religious heritage tour.
Accessibility
The church is accessible from Didžioji Street, though some interior areas may have limited accessibility due to historical architectural constraints.
Practical Information for Travelers
How to Get There
From Vilnius Cathedral Square, the church is a short 10‑minute walk through the Old Town. Public buses and trolleybuses stop nearby, and taxis or ride‑sharing services are widely available.
Nearby Facilities
The surrounding area offers numerous cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, and accommodation options ranging from boutique hotels to budget hostels.
Safety
Vilnius Old Town is generally safe for visitors. Standard precautions apply, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Sources
- Go Vilnius – Official Tourism Portal https://www.govilnius.lt
- Walkable Vilnius – Official City Walking Guide https://www.walkablevilnius.com
- City of Mercy – Official Pilgrimage Information https://www.cityofmercy.lt