The Church of St. Anne, at Maironio g. 8 in Vilnius Old Town, Lithuania, is one of the finest examples of Flamboyant Gothic architecture in Eastern Europe. Built around 1500 from red brick, it has a facade of 33 different types of moulded brick shaped into pinnacles, turrets, tracery windows and a flowing, lace-like silhouette. Local legend says Napoleon, passing through Vilnius in 1812, admired the church so much that he wished he could carry it back to Paris in the palm of his hand. The interior is much simpler than the exterior, with a modest nave, white walls and a small altar, so most visitors spend their time outdoors admiring the facade from different angles. The best view is from the northeast, across the small street and the Vilnia riverbank, where the church fills the frame together with the neighbouring Bernardine Church and its taller bell tower. A visit takes around 20 minutes, with another 20 if walking to the Bernardine Church, Bernardine Garden and the Uzupis bridge beyond. The church lies a few minutes' walk from Pilies Street and is usually combined with them in a walking tour. It remains an active Catholic church, so the interior may close during services and visitors should dress and behave respectfully. Crowds are light in the morning, rise in the afternoon with tour groups, and peak in summer between 11:00 and 16:00. Late afternoon is the best time for photography, when the setting sun brings out the deep red of the brickwork and the contrast with the sky. Winter visits are quiet and the church looks especially dramatic under snow or in evening floodlights.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, about 10:00-18:00 (varies with services) |
| Typical visit | 20 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon, when the red brick glows |
| Getting there | Walk from Pilies g. (8 min) |
| Address | Maironio g. 8, 01124 Vilnius, Lithuania |
Location
Maironio g. 8, 01124 Vilnius, Lithuania
54.6808, 25.2929 View on map
Highlights
- Study the Flamboyant Gothic facade built from 33 different shapes of moulded brick
- Photograph the church together with the Bernardine Church behind it
- Hear the Napoleon legend about wanting to carry the church to Paris
- Step inside the quiet, whitewashed interior and altar
Tips for visiting
- Visit in late afternoon, when the red brick glows in low sunlight.
- Photograph from across the street for the full facade, since the lane is narrow.
- Entry is free, but dress respectfully and stay quiet during services.
- Combine with the Bernardine Church and Garden, which are a few minutes away.
- Check for closed doors outside of service hours, as interior opening times vary.
When to visit
Late afternoon gives the warmest light on the red brick, while mornings are quiet. Summer midday attracts the most tour groups.
Accessibility
The entrance is at street level with a small step, and the interior is on one level, though the cobbled approach is uneven. Wheelchair users may find access manageable with assistance.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About 20 minutes covers the exterior and interior. Adding the Bernardine Church and Garden makes it a 45-minute stop.
Is it worth it for kids?
Children usually enjoy the story of Napoleon and the unusual facade, although the interior is plain and the visit is short.
Is photography allowed?
Exterior photography is unrestricted, and quiet photography inside is typically tolerated outside of services.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free, and donations are welcomed.