Chodkevičiai Palace

Chodkevičiai Palace Vilnius: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Chodkevičiai Palace, situated at Didžioji Street 4 in the heart of Vilnius Old Town, stands as one of Lithuania’s most significant architectural and cultural monuments. Originally established by the influential Chodkevičiai (Chodkiewicz) family in the 16th century, the palace has evolved through Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist phases, reflecting the city’s rich historical tapestry. Today, it houses the Vilnius Picture Gallery—a branch of the Lithuanian National Museum of Art—featuring an outstanding collection of Lithuanian and European art from the 16th to 19th centuries.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need for your visit, including current opening hours, ticketing options, accessibility information, and insider tips, while offering a detailed look at the palace’s storied past and architectural evolution. Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Chodkevičiai Palace promises a memorable experience at the crossroads of Lithuania’s noble heritage and contemporary culture. For official updates, visit the Lithuanian Art Museum website or the Vilnius Tourism Board.

Chodkevičiai Palace in Vilnius Lithuania exterior view

Historical Legacy: From Noble Residence to Museum
Architectural Evolution and Restoration
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exhibitions and Cultural Events
Practical Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Further Resources

Historical Legacy: From Noble Residence to Museum

The Chodkevičiai Family and Early History

The Chodkevičiai Palace traces its origins to the 16th century, when Jurgis Chodkevičius, Castellan of Trakai, acquired the estate. Over the following centuries, the Chodkevičiai family—key figures in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania—expanded and fortified the property, embedding Renaissance attributes and constructing defensive walls and towers. The family’s prominence is exemplified by Jan Karol Chodkiewicz, a celebrated military leader, and through their patronage of the arts, education, and religious institutions, which helped shape Vilnius into a vibrant cultural center (poznajwilno.pl PDF).

Transformations and Ownership Changes

The palace underwent significant changes, particularly after being damaged by fire in 1748. Architect Augustinas Vireneris led a Baroque-style reconstruction in the mid-18th century, followed by late Classicism modifications by Tomas Tišeckis in the early 19th century. The property changed hands several times, notably to the Pusłowski and Olizar families, each of whom made their own mark while preserving the palace’s historic character (poznajwilno.pl PDF).

From Academia to Restoration

In the 19th century, the palace was repurposed as dormitories for the Vilnius Medical-Surgical Imperial Academy. After World War I, it became part of Vilnius University, later housing the Red Cross Pharmacy and apartments for academics. A major restoration in 1981 preserved its architectural integrity, preparing it for its current role as a museum and cultural hub.

Architectural Evolution and Restoration

Chodkevičiai Palace is a living chronicle of Vilnius’s architectural trends:

Renaissance Origins: The original structure featured fortified wings and an inner courtyard, characteristic of noble city residences in the 16th–17th centuries.
Baroque Flourishes: Mid-18th-century rebuilding added decorative stucco work and harmonious Baroque façades, led by architect Augustinas Vireneris.
Classicist Refinement: The early 19th-century transformation by Tomas Tišeckis introduced symmetry, restrained ornamentation, and the addition of a third storey, setting the tone for the palace’s present-day appearance (lndm.lt).
Interior Highlights: Notable features include 19th-century Empire-style interiors with ornate ceramic stoves, stucco sculptures, and original period furnishings (welovelithuania.com).
Restoration Efforts: Since the late 20th century, careful restoration has maintained historical authenticity, using period-appropriate materials and techniques (lndm.lt).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

As of 2025, the Vilnius Picture Gallery at Chodkevičiai Palace is open:

Tuesday: 10:00–20:00
Wednesday–Saturday: 10:00–18:00
Sunday: 11:00–17:00
Monday and Public Holidays: Closed
Note: On the eve of public holidays, the gallery closes one hour earlier. The ticket office closes 30 minutes before closing time.
(lndm.lt)

Ticket Information

Standard ticket: €6
Discounted ticket: €3 (students, seniors, etc.)
Guided tour: €25 (advance booking recommended)
Tickets are available at the entrance or online via the Lithuanian National Museum of Art website. The gallery also participates in the GO Vilnius Pass program for bundled attraction discounts.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: The main entrance and ground floor are accessible, though some historic rooms and upper floors may present challenges due to the building’s heritage status. Contact the gallery in advance for specific requirements.
Facilities: Modern restrooms, a cloakroom, and a gift shop offering art books and souvenirs are available.
Languages: Staff speak Lithuanian and English; exhibition labels are mostly bilingual, and guided tours in English can be booked in advance.

Exhibitions and Cultural Events

Permanent Exhibitions

The Vilnius Picture Gallery presents a comprehensive selection of Lithuanian and European art from the 16th to 19th centuries, including:

Noble Portraits: Featuring the Chodkevičiai family and other Lithuanian aristocrats.
Religious and Historical Paintings: Highlighting the region’s multi-faith heritage and pivotal events.
Empire-Style Interiors: Restored rooms displaying period furnishings and decorative arts (lndm.lt).

Temporary Exhibitions and Events

The gallery regularly hosts special exhibitions featuring both Lithuanian and international artists. Concerts, lectures, workshops, and cultural evenings are held throughout the year, often coinciding with city festivals such as Culture Night and European Heritage Days (vilniuswithlocals.com).

Practical Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience; summer festivals can attract larger crowds.
Photography: Permitted for personal use without flash or tripods; some exhibitions may have additional restrictions.
No Onsite Café: Numerous dining options are available within a short walk along Didžioji Street and Town Hall Square.
Nearby Sights: Vilnius Town Hall, St. John’s Church, Literatų Street, Gediminas’ Tower, and the Presidential Palace are all easily accessible (touropia.com).
Getting There: The palace is easily reached by foot from most Old Town attractions and is well served by public transportation. Public parking is available nearby, though spaces are limited.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current opening hours?
A: Tuesday 10:00–20:00, Wednesday–Saturday 10:00–18:00, Sunday 11:00–17:00; closed Mondays and public holidays.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available at the entrance or online via the Lithuanian National Museum of Art website.

Q: Is the palace wheelchair accessible?
A: The main entrance and ground floor are accessible; some upper floors may have limited access. Contact the gallery for details.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Lithuanian and English, by advance booking.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, for personal use without flash or tripods. Some temporary exhibitions may have restrictions.

Q: Are there restrooms and other amenities?
A: Yes, modern restrooms, a cloakroom, and a gift shop are available.

Conclusion and Further Resources

Chodkevičiai Palace remains a cornerstone of Vilnius’s historical and cultural landscape. From its origins as a noble residence through centuries of architectural transformation, to its current status as a dynamic museum, the palace offers visitors a unique window into Lithuanian heritage. Its central location, extensive art collections, and vibrant events program make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Vilnius Old Town.

For up-to-date information on exhibitions, events, and visitor services, consult the Lithuanian Art Museum website. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for curated cultural guides and following the museum’s social media channels.