Katedros Sq. 3,

Tel. 262 9426

In the 16th century, the Lower Castle was a luxurious residence of the Grand Dukes. However, the Castle burned many times and was restored again and again. After the wars of the 17th century, the destroyed castle began to loose its representational function: after the Lublin Union, the kings during their visits to Vilnius stayed in the other residences in the city. Finally, the castle began to decay and in 1802 its foundations were blasted according to the order of general governor. Now, archaeologists and preservers of historical sites are investigating the history of the former dukes' palace. It is intended to restore the palace in the future; but in the meanwhile, exhibitions, theatre performances, and concerts are taking place in the underground territory open for the visitors. Both the tourists groups and individual interested visitors may come here