Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, at Katedros a. 4 beside Cathedral Square in Vilnius, is a reconstruction of the Renaissance and Baroque residence of the rulers of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The original palace was a political and cultural centre from the 15th to the 17th century, then fell into decline and was demolished in 1801. Archaeological excavations began in the 1980s, and the palace was rebuilt in the early 2000s, opening to visitors in 2009 as a museum. Visitors follow four routes that can be bought separately or as one full ticket. The first covers the underground archaeological remains and the history of the site, including cellars and original walls. The second explores the ceremonial halls and residential chambers, furnished with period pieces, tapestries, paintings and sculptures. The third presents the palace's history through exhibits of daily life, and the fourth covers the story of the building's reconstruction. Highlights include the Gothic cellars, Renaissance and Baroque interiors, weapons and armour, and the large collections of Flemish tapestries and furniture. A visit to all routes takes two to three hours, so many visitors choose the full ticket and a break at the courtyard. Guided tours and audio guides are available in several languages, and they add context for the palace's role in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The best photo angle of the exterior is from the corner of Cathedral Square near the bell tower, while the interior galleries offer bright, long enfilades. Crowds are heaviest at weekends and during school trips on weekdays; late afternoon and the Thursday late opening are quieter. Visitors with limited time can choose a single route, with the underground archaeological route often favoured. The palace is closed on Mondays.