Orthodox Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Naujoji Vilnia, Vilnius, Lithuania

Orthodox Church Of St. Peter And St. Paul, Vilnius

Church of St. Peter and St. Paul Vilnius: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Churches of St. Peter and St. Paul in Vilnius are among the city’s most significant religious and cultural landmarks. Celebrated for their architectural splendor, rich history, and role in the spiritual life of Lithuania, these churches draw visitors from around the world. This comprehensive guide explores both the Catholic and Orthodox churches bearing this dedication, offering essential information on visiting hours, ticket prices, accessibility, guided tours, and nearby attractions. Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to these churches promises an unforgettable journey into Lithuania’s heritage (Yomadic, How to Vilnius).

Saints Peter and Paul Church in Naujoji Vilna, Lithuania

Historical Overview
Architectural and Artistic Features
Religious Practices and Community Life
Visitor Information (Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, Tours)
Special Events and Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Reliable Sources and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Catholic Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Standing as a testament to Lithuania’s Baroque legacy, the Catholic Church of St. Peter and St. Paul was commissioned in the late 17th century by Michał Kazimierz Pac, the Great Lithuanian Hetman. The current structure was built on the site of earlier churches, with roots reaching back before Lithuania’s Christianization in 1387. The church was reconstructed after devastation during the Russo-Polish War (1655–1661), with construction beginning in 1668 and completed under the guidance of Italian architect Giovanni Battista Frediani. The church was consecrated in 1701, becoming a mausoleum for its founder, whose tombstone bears the inscription “Here lies a sinner” (Yomadic).

Orthodox Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

The Orthodox Church of St. Peter and St. Paul reflects Vilnius’s diverse religious heritage. Orthodox Christianity has deep roots in the city, with the establishment of the Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ruthenia in Vilnius in the early 15th century (LRT). The Orthodox church, while less prominent than its Catholic counterpart, serves as a focal point for the local Orthodox community and exemplifies the city’s multicultural spiritual landscape (How to Vilnius).

Architectural and Artistic Features

Catholic Church

Exterior:
The church’s façade at 1 Antakalnio Street is a classic example of Baroque architecture—elegant, harmonious, and inviting, with twin bell towers and a triangular pediment.

Interior:
Inside, visitors are awestruck by over 2,000 white stucco figures created by Italian masters Giovanni Pietro Perti and Giovanni Maria Galli. These figures, ranging from biblical scenes to allegories and saints, envelop the walls, vaults, and dome, creating an ethereal, luminous space. The main altar features “The Farewell of Sts. Peter and Paul” by Franciszek Smuglewicz. Notable artifacts include a crystal sailboat suspended from the ceiling and the tomb of Pac at the entrance (Yomadic, Live the World).

Orthodox Church

The Orthodox Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is distinguished by its harmonious proportions and domed roof, characteristic of Byzantine influences interwoven with Baroque and local styles. The interior is adorned with an elaborate iconostasis, frescoes, and icons that teach and inspire the faithful, making the church a visual and spiritual center for the Orthodox community (True Lithuania).

Religious Practices and Community Life

The Catholic church continues to host regular Masses, special Baroque music concerts, and community events. The Orthodox church remains an active parish, with services conducted in Church Slavonic or Russian, and serves as a hub for Orthodox traditions, religious music, and community gatherings. Visitors are welcome to attend services but should respect local customs and refrain from photography during liturgies (How to Vilnius).

Visitor Information

Catholic Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Visiting Hours:

Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(Hours may vary on holidays; check the official website for updates.)

Tickets:

Entrance: €2 per person
Free for children under 12 and Vilnius residents
Guided tours available for an additional fee

Accessibility:
Wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated seating. Assistance is available upon request.

Photography:
Permitted for personal use without flash; professional equipment requires permission.

Location and Transport:
Antakalnio g. 1, Vilnius. Easily accessible by bus (lines 1, 2, 88, stop: Antakalnis), taxi, or a 25-minute walk from Old Town.

Orthodox Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

Visiting Hours:

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on major Orthodox and national holidays
(Hours may vary; check local sources or the official parish website.)

Tickets:

Entry is free; donations are welcome.

Accessibility:
Some steps and uneven flooring; assistance recommended for visitors with mobility challenges.

Photography:
Allowed outside of liturgical services; flash and tripods prohibited without permission.

Guided Tours:
Available by arrangement; check with local tourism offices or the parish.

Special Events and Nearby Attractions

Special Events:
Both churches host religious festivals, special liturgical celebrations, and, at the Catholic church, Baroque music concerts.

Nearby Attractions:

Vilnius Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Bernardine Park
Užupis Art District
Three Crosses Monument
Gates of Dawn
Vilnius University Botanical Garden

Visitor Tips

Arrive early or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees; women may optionally cover their heads in the Orthodox church.
Allocate at least an hour for your visit to appreciate the artistry and spiritual ambiance.
Respect local customs, maintain silence during services, and refrain from eating or drinking inside.
Combine your church visit with a stroll through Antakalnis or Vilnius Old Town for a richer experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Catholic Church

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM–7:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: €2 per person; free for children under 12 and Vilnius residents.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, without flash, except during services.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, seasonally and by arrangement.

Q: Is the church accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps and assistance.

Orthodox Church

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Is entry free?
A: Yes; donations are welcome.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Yes, by advance arrangement.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, except during services and without flash.

Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited; assistance recommended.

Conclusion

The Churches of St. Peter and St. Paul in Vilnius are not only architectural wonders but also vital centers of Lithuania’s religious, artistic, and cultural life. The Catholic church enchants with its Baroque stucco masterpiece, while the Orthodox church offers a window into Eastern Christian traditions. Visiting these sites provides a deeper understanding of Vilnius as a crossroads of cultures and faiths. Plan your visit using trusted resources, and enhance your journey with guided tours and nearby cultural attractions.

For curated tours, travel tips, and the latest updates on Vilnius attractions, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Embrace the opportunity to experience the beauty and spiritual resonance of Lithuania’s sacred heritage.